Marilyn Odessa Williams

Marilyn Odessa (Berry) Williams transitioned to her eternal resting place Saturday, October 25, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. Marilyn was born on April 8, 1946, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to the union of Magellan Berry Sr. and Suzanne Mary Louise (Mascott) Berry. She was the eldest of two children and has a brother, Magellan (Choanie) Berry Jr.

Marilyn graduated from East High School in Denver, Colorado, in 1964. A proud East High Angel, she remained connected with her classmates throughout her life and most recently attended her 60th class reunion. Although she initially dreamed of attending dance school, her practical nature and passion for growth led her to complete a two-year business program, where she cultivated skills that would shape her professional success.

Marilyn’s belief in the “eye of the tiger” allowed her to often share wisdom about perseverance and drive. She reminded her children that even when someone else may seem bigger, stronger, or faster, their unique talents and determination could still carry them to victory. She had rules that everyone had to follow, but most importantly, was enjoying life. As her children grew up, she would often encourage them to bring friends on her Mom field trips. She would pile 5-6 kids in her 280 ZX to take them to an amusement park, a cultural event or flying down the highway to the “record store” to get the latest release.

Marilyn built a distinguished 30-year career with Continental Airlines. Her time with the airline not only reflected her dedication and leadership but also sparked her lifelong love for travel. She passed that passion on to her children and grandchildren, creating unforgettable memories. Some of her most memorable trips are to Acapulco, Hawaii, Costa Rica, South Africa, Panama and the Dominican Republic, as well as many states across the U.S. Her family lovingly recalls that she gave them “the travel bug,” opening their eyes to the beauty and diversity of the world.

Marilyn was known throughout Montbello as the “Neighborhood Mom.” For over 50 years, her home was a haven filled with love, laughter, structure, and truth. Marilyn’s loyalty to her Montbello community was unwavering. Nothing her children did could convince her to move from her beloved Colorado and her Montbello community. She often volunteered during elections, at donation drives, and for causes that uplifted her neighbors. Every child in the neighborhood knew they were welcome. She was famous for her honest and direct conversations, encouraging everyone she knew to be accountable. She found joy in simple pleasures: gardening, music, dancing, movies, and brain puzzles.

Her garden was her sanctuary, a place where she felt closest to God and the universe. With a green thumb, Marilyn could grow anything. Marilyn loved when her children and grandchildren joined her in the garden to get dirty. Marilyn loved Michael Jackson and old school R&B from the ‘60’s and 70’s which inspired impromptu dance parties with her children and grandchildren. Her love of the color blue reflected her calm yet vibrant spirit. Marilyn made holidays magical. She would send her adult children “whipped cream money” for Valentine’s day, dress up in creative costumes for Halloween and most of all she loved celebrating Christmas, her favorite holiday, with all of her children and grandchildren.

Marilyn’s journey through life was marked by love and family. She married Robert Collins, and together they welcomed two daughters and one son. She then married Meredith McWilliams, and from this union welcomed her youngest daughter. Marilyn later married Virgil Williams and they remained friends. Her children were her pride and joy, and she instilled in them the values of service, integrity, hard work, and community pride. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, each one a reflection of her love and guidance. Her four grandchildren loved her fiercely and gave her many opportunities to travel to see their activities and accomplishments.

Treasuring her memory and legacy are her children and grandchildren:

Suzanne (aka “Tootie”) Lynnette (Collins) Bryant, son Charles IV (Nana’s Que-Man)

Stephanie (aka “Trotter”) Lorraine Collins, son Stacy

Stephen (aka “The Dude”) Landon Collins, daughter Dyonasis

Marlena (aka “Pooh”) Deidra McWilliams, son Isaiah

Marilyn was affectionately known as “Mom,” “Nana,” “Deti,” “Tissy,” “Momma Marilyn,” and “Mile High Mama,”. She leaves behind a legacy rich in love, wisdom, and joy. Marilyn’s presence, her laughter, strength, and boundless compassion will continue to inspire. She will be missed by a host of extended family and friends.

A Celebration of Marilyn’s Life will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, November 7th, 2025 at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary, 6601 S. Colorado Blvd, Centennial, CO 80121.

Viewing will precede the celebration beginning at 12 noon.

Entombment will follow and be held in Olinger Chapel Hill Cemetery.