Marilyn Lee Mefford

Marilyn Lee Mefford, age 65, daughter of Hubert and Emma Mefford, passed from this world on August 25, 2024. Marilyn was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 1, 1958, lovingly embraced by her family and friends. Challenging the existing notions of Down Syndrome at that time, the decision was made by her parents to give her the daily life experiences that could help her to find her path in life and to grow in her God-given abilities. This choice proved to be of great benefit to Marilyn and others who learned to embrace her sweet soul as a blessing from God.

As her life continued through childhood in Pennsylvania and into adulthood back in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Georgia, she fostered many academic, social, and musical skills. Taking part in early learning programs, attending Crestwood Elementary School, participating at St. Marys of Louisville, and bowling in the Special Olympics, formed her body, mind, and optimistic spirit. Her Catholic faith nurtured her enduring “get up and go” heart, especially when she encountered obstacles and challenges along the way.

Mostly, though, Marilyn’s natural and joyful desire of tending to her loved ones would shine in her 65-year role as a compassionate big sister to her six younger sisters. She innately brought them to a greater understanding of family values and priorities by being a constant reminder of the happiness that could be found by living a simplistic life. She enjoyed sharing her daily habits of spinning colorful yarn, coloring in books, and watching nostalgic shows with those who sat next to her, making them feel especially cherished. Cuddling and hugging on the many family babies, toddlers, children, teens, and adults were occasions that gave her great delight during her years, and all who knew her were able to understand her words, gestures, innocent spinning of accountability, humorous glances, industrious pursuits, and particular naming of loved ones. Marilyn was often known to spread great cheer to the lives of her many friends, neighbors, acquaintances, and extended family members with her animated greetings, tight hugs, and unconditional acceptance. She thrived on these conversations and relationships with those who truly understood her.

In her lifetime Marilyn unknowingly gave lessons of patience, forgiveness, service, and unconditional love, and she remained a beacon of authentic joy until her day of death. She was loved “good, good, good” by many and will be missed greatly as her memory lives in their hearts.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Emma Mefford; sister, Brenda Jo Mefford; half-sister, Ruth Ann Campbell; half-brother, John Jones; brother-in-law, Jimmy “Boy” Angell; niece, Lindsay Angell; nephew, Matthew Stoess; godparents, Charlie and Louella Hartley.

Marilyn is survived by sisters, Annette Mefford, Theresa Angell, Debbie Mefford, Becky (Bill) Bernhard, Nancy (Jeff) Smith, and Kim (Doug) Lane; stepmother, Barbara Mefford; 45 nieces and nephews.

A visitation for Marilyn will be held at Evergreen Funeral Home, 4623 Preston Highway, on Monday, September 2 from 4:00 pm-8:00 pm. Her Funeral Mass will be held at The Shrine of St. Martin of Tours, 639 S. Shelby Street, on Tuesday, September 3rd at 9:30 am, with the burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Down Syndrome of Louisville.