Is it easier to search in her maiden name or married name? My great grandmother was married once in PA and once in IL... I'm not coming up with anything in either name that comes close to her birthday

Maiden name is more productive to spend the time on - as info found on HER parents will be helpful for finding info on her.

... and believe it or not, info on her parents may very well be found easier than info on her.

If you share her birth name, location and birthday - I'll be happy to do some looking for you: I've got online subscriptions and do a lot of genealogical research.

I found some info for you and PMd you.