Marikay "Cake" Jerit, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and devoted public servant, passed away in Chicago, IL, on April 14, 2023, surrounded by her family and love. Born on March 14, 1958, in Urbana, IL, Marikay was a kind, friendly, and loving woman who dedicated her life to caring for others and was deeply passionate about her interests, including helping people, art, music, and sports.

Mourning the loss of Marikay are her beloved family members, including her loving son, Michael Hampton, and his supportive partner, Kirsten Lentz; her cherished daughter, Aubrey Hampton, and dedicated son-in-law, Lamar Dales; her adored grandchildren, Skylar Eady and Zen Dales; and her loving siblings, Claudia Fruin, Jennifer Johnson, and John Jerit. Marikay's legacy will be carried forward by these close family members, as well as her mother, Joanne Murphy O'Brien-Scott, and countless friends and colleagues who will always remember her kindness and generosity.

Marikay wholeheartedly dedicated her professional life to the Department of Children and Family Services of Illinois, where she prided herself in making a difference in the lives of countless children and families throughout the years. As a valued employee and advocate, Marikay's caring nature and selflessness made her a wonderful asset to the organization, and her impact will surely be felt for many years to come. Her efforts to make the world a better place did not stop at her retirement. She loved being a volunteer for the Red Cross and gave her time whenever she was able.

Marikay's love of art and music played an integral role in her life. Her children and grandchildren will fondly remember their time spent with her in galleries, museums, and concert halls, sharing in her enthusiasm and interest in the power of creativity. She believed that art and music had the ability to bring people together and to encourage understanding, and she nurtured these qualities in her family and those around her.

The legacy of Marikay Jerit will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. She was truly a beautiful human that embraced everyone she met. Her kindness, friendliness, and love for others touched many lives and will be remembered always.

A memorial service for Marikay Jerit will be held at a later date, where her family, friends, and colleagues will gather to celebrate her life and honor the incredible woman that she was. Marikay may be gone, but the impact she left on so many lives will never be forgotten.