Mary Wilson McIlrath of DeKalb, Illinois, and rural Lee, Illinois, was known for her warm smile and kind, gentle heart. She was married to Wayne McIlrath for 63 years. After his passing, the Wayne McIlrath Family Scholarship Fund was created in 2006 to honor his memory. Annually, the Fund provides an award to a returning or continuing student at Kishwaukee College in Malta, IL. 

Mary Wilson McIlrath passed away on July 16, 2007. The Fund received several memorial contributions from her funeral. Together, Mary and Wayne continue to leave a legacy of love and support for their community.