Marilyn Burns

Marilyn Burns, 65, of Houston, Texas, passed away on August 5, 2014, in her home of natural causes. Marilyn was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on May 7, 1949. She is survived by her brother, Bill Burns; niece, Brooke Burns; and relatives Ron Rusche and Cindy Burns. Marilyn is preceded in death by her mother, Mary I. Burns; sister, Sharon Burns; and father, Wilbur E. Burns. Marilyn went to Memorial High School and graduated in 1967. Graduating from University of Texas (Austin), in 1971, Marilyn earned her degree in fine arts and was the only actress serving on the Texas Film Commission.

From the day Marilyn was born, she had a passion for acting. Not only did she accomplish her dream of becoming an actress, she became known as the greatest screamer in movie history. Her biggest achievement of her acting career was her lead role of Sally Hardesty in Texas Chainsaw Massacre. This film became one of the most successful independent films at the time. From 1973 to 2014, Marilyn continued her acting career in the films Helter Skelter, Eaten Alive, Future Kill, Texas Chainsaw 3D and others. Up until her final days, Marilyn still fulfilled her dream by playing a role in the film, Sacrament, in June 2014.

Marilyn enjoyed traveling and loved greeting her fans at the horror conventions. Her humor would always lighten the room, as so did her spirit and personality. What Marilyn cherished the most, besides her family, friends and fans, was her cat, Cinnamon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the two following charities that were close to Marilyn: American Heart Association and The Alzheimer's Foundation.