Marilyn Sue Hawley

January 12, 1953 – October 21, 2026

Marilyn S. (Reynolds) Hawley, 73, passed away on October 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Born on January 12, 1953, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Marilyn spent her early years moving with her military family before they settled in Sherwood, Arkansas. A proud graduate of Sylvan Hills High School’s Class of 1971, Marilyn was a cheerleader when she met the love of her life, Charles Hawley, a basketball player. What began as a high school romance grew into a lifetime of love and devotion following their marriage in 1973.

Marilyn dedicated 33 years of service to the State of Arkansas, beginning her career as a receptionist and rising to become Assistant Director of Arkansas Alcohol Beverage Control. She took great pride in her work, but it was the people she worked alongside who brought her so much joy. Her ABC family held a special place in her heart.

A woman of faith, Marilyn shared her musical talents as the organist at Runyan Baptist Church and was a member of First Baptist Church of Sherwood at the time of her passing.

Marilyn had a remarkable gift for making people feel loved and welcome. Her home was a gathering place where the door was always open, there was always room for one more, and no one ever left hungry. She was affectionately known as “Meme” not only to her grandchildren, but to so many others whose lives she touched.

She could often be found cheering enthusiastically for her grandchildren or her beloved Arkansas Razorbacks. She treasured the friendships she made throughout her life, especially the adventures and laughter shared with her high school friends, lovingly known as “the Belles.” Marilyn also enjoyed antiquing, collecting beautiful “pretties,” and admiring glasswork, finding joy in the little treasures that made life special.

Above all, Marilyn loved her family and the people God placed in her life. Her warm heart, welcoming spirit, beautiful smile, and unforgettable personality will remain with all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Keither and Rachel Reynolds of Jacksonville, Arkansas.

She is survived by her loving husband, Charles Hawley; her children, Chuck Hawley and his wife, Cristina, of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Lauren Hawley of Sherwood, Arkansas; and her beloved grandchildren, Ava Smith-Hawley, Olivia Hawley, Kade Renk, Parker and Prestyn Easterling.

She is also survived by her siblings, Debbie McMullen and her husband, Gene, of Angleton, Texas; and Linda Dowd and Charles Ray Reynolds, both of Jacksonville, Arkansas along with several nieces and nephews and the many others she lovingly considered family.

Marilyn’s legacy will live on in the family she loved, the friendships she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the countless people who were fortunate enough to call her Meme.