Marilyn Jance (Smith) Watson was born October 27, 1939, in Springfield, Tennessee, to the late Rosemond Janoella “Peaches” Smith and Eugene Inman Smith. She was the oldest of three daughters, alongside her beloved sisters, Beverly Lane (Leotis) and Barbara Wayne (Curdell), all of whom preceded her in death.

Marilyn was raised in Chicago, Illinois, where she attended and graduated from Hyde Park High School. Throughout her 86 years of life, she became known for her love, kindness, strength, generosity, courage, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Marilyn was a protector by nature. One of the greatest demonstrations of her courage came when she placed herself in harm's way to protect her baby sister and children during a vicious attack. Her actions helped save their lives, but left Marilyn hospitalized and with a permanent indentation in her head. She carried that scar for the remainder of her life, not merely as evidence of what happened to her, but as a lasting testimony of the lengths she would go to protect those she loved.

Marilyn was always caring for others and would willingly give what she had if it meant someone else would not have to suffer. Even when she was hurting, she rarely complained. When asked how she was doing, she would simply say, “I'm alright.”

Family meant everything to Marilyn. She remembered birthdays and was famous for calling early in the morning to sing “Happy Birthday.” And those who spoke with her regularly will forever remember how she ended her telephone calls:

“Tell everyone that I love them,” followed by her familiar kissing sound.

God blessed Marilyn with three sons, Kevin Gregory (Theresa), Michael Keith Sr. (Rachael), and Anthony Charles, who preceded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Kevin Gregory (Theresa) and Michael Keith Sr. (Rachael); nephew, Hardy Thomas (Margaret); nieces, Robbin and Chelley (Keith); her special friend, Ms. Jackie Sutton, whom she met while living in Chesapeake, Virginia; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; cousins, extended family, and many friends.

Marilyn's final message reflected the faith and love by which she lived. She wanted everyone to know that she loved them, and she wanted those she loved to make their relationship with God a priority so that this earthly separation would not be forever.

Her life was a testimony, her love was her gift, and her family is her legacy.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7, KJV

All services will be held privately.