Marilyn Jean Findley

Marilyn Jean Findley (nee Cole) entered eternal rest December 20th, 2023, at age 86 at Legacy Heights Nursing Home in Russellville, Arkansas. She was born July 6, 1937, in Chickasha Oklahoma to Clyde and Alta Cole. Marilyn attended Oklahoma College for Women. She and James Benson Findley were married June 27, 1959, and she lived for her entire adult life in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Originally a Sooner fan, she saw the light and became a staunch Razorback fan almost immediately. In 1960, Marilyn and James welcomed their only son, James (Jim) Curtis Findley, who was the light of her life.

Marilyn began teaching kindergarten at St. Paul United Methodist Church, where she and James were members. She loved working with the children and taught for over two decades. Many of her young students became so attached to her that they kept in touch into their adulthood. Marilyn was an energetic and empathetic person whose greatest joy was caring for others. That included the many dogs she and James owned over the years. Though she never thought she would like to sleep in a tent, Marilyn grew to love camping and the outdoors. She would try just about anything if it meant more time with family. She loved to laugh and enjoyed many running jokes with her family.

Marilyn is predeceased by her husband James and her brother, Clyde Cole, Jr. She is survived by her son, Jim, her daughter-in-law, Diane, her grandson Grant Belvin, his wife Shelley, and great-grandsons Slade and Holt.

A private burial will be held at Elizabeth Hall Cemetery in New Blaine, Arkansas with a memorial service on January 11, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith, Arkansas.