Marilyn passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026. She was born in Lake City, FL to Hugo and Catherine Leslie. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband of forty-five years, Norman, sister, Bonney Reynolds, nephew Christopher Reynolds, as well as brothers in law, Jack Reynolds and James Terry.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Susan Loges, Christy Powell, grandchildren, Alana Burch, Nathan Powell, Isabella Powell, Elaine Powell; siblings, Samuel Leslie, Barbara Leslie, Carol Terry, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and several cousins.

She attended elementary through high school in the Columbia County Schools, graduating in 1967. She attended Lake City Community College, finishing with an A.A. degree in 1969 and a B.S. in Exceptional Education from Florida State University in 1971. During three summers of college, she worked as a camp counselor at the Florida Methodist Youth Camp in Leesburg, Florida. She taught school in Pinellas County for 4.5 years on the elementary level in the aera of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD). She continued teaching SLD students on the middle school level in New Orleans, LA, 4th grade regular education students at Westwood Christian School in Live Oak for 1.5 years followed by 29 years at Suwannee High School in various levels and subjects for Exceptional Education Students, retiring in 2015. She loved teaching and the many students she was privileged to work with.

After retiring, she volunteered as a reading tutor in library and school systems and was a member of the Suwannee/Lafayette Retired Educators Association. Marilyn was a member of First Baptist Church of Live Oak, FL since 2002, serving in various capacities and ministries. Her deepest joy was in her faith and relationship with Jesus Christ, followed by her love for her children and grandchildren. She had the honor of being able to pray for and encourage families, friends, and many others.

There will be a visitation on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 10-11am at First Baptist Church, Live Oak, FL with a memorial service immediately following at 11am.

Please keep the family in your prayers and take a moment to sign the online guestbook.