Marilyn R Ridlen

She married the love of her life Vernon (Bud) Ridlen on October 16, 1959 in Boston, Massachusetts where he was stationed waiting for deployment to Germany. Together, they moved many places with the Army, including Germany, Georgia, Kansas, Illinois, and Florida to name a few. They raised two children they adopted while in Germany, Raymond and Karen. She and Bud decided to plant the their roots in Florida around 1969 when Vernon received orders for Viet Nam.

Marilyn worked as a Cosmetologist prior to her marriage, and became an Army wife and stay-at-home mom. When Bud retired, she became a Real Estate agent in their Real Estate business Ridlen Realty.

Marilyn was a member of the Eastern Star in Clinton, IL. In her spare time, Marilyn enjoyed looking for treasures at yard sales, collecting and refurbishing dolls, and was a huge Lightning fan.

Marilyn is predeceased in death by her beloved husband Vernon "Bud" Ridlen, son Raymond Ridlen, and parents Kenneth and Louise Miller.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen Potter, son-in-law Jeff Potter, granddaughter Heather Bybee, cousin Ellen Johnsen, and Nephew Doug Wene. She will be dearly missed by all that knew her and will be remembered for her kind soul and unique character.

A graveside service for Marilyn will take place Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 3:00 pm at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park with a Celebration of Life Reception to follow at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice are appreciated.