Marilyn Dees Jarrett, 87, of Harrison, Arkansas, passed away March 11, 2024, at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center.  She was one of the first babies delivered by Dr. Kirby on September 4, 1936.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Montie Dees; son, Richard Jarrett; three sisters and three brothers (Agnes, Frank, Alpha, Thersia, Meredith, and Lowell).  She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Curtis; two children, Michael (Deborah), and Cindy (Don) Johnson; daughter-in-law, Debbie Jarrett; sister, Charlene Cunningham; two grandchildren, Andrew (Julie) Jarrett, and Ellen (Aaron) Wagner; and three great grandchildren, Reagan and Madison Wagner, and Ryker Jarrett.

Marilyn graduated from Valley Springs High School at age 16 in 1953.  She was the highest scorer on the girls' basketball team with an average of 18 points per game (before there were 3-point shots) and was awarded the Girl's Athletic Award.   Her athleticism continued as an adult entering a team bowling league and becoming the Morning Marvels Champions in 1967.

Marilyn was baptized at the Bellefonte church of Christ on Dec 1,1957, as a young adult, remaining faithful until the end.  She was a member of Northside church of Christ for the last 40 years.  She loved teaching the nursery and taught for many years.  She loved babies!  Later, she actively enjoyed the Golden Years group, as well as all church activities.  She was always prepared to share her faith with others.

Marilyn always visited nursing homes taking her children along to sing and visit; even before she served as an ombudsman at one of the local nursing homes between 2004 and 2012. She received the Royce Haigwood outstanding certified volunteer ombudsman award.

Marilyn worked in multiple positions at the telephone company starting as a switchboard operator, manually connecting the lines.   She retired from Alltel with over 30 years of service.

Most of all, Marilyn loved the Lord with all her heart, soul, and mind.  Likewise, she loved her Family always putting others first.  Daily keeping everyone aware of upcoming and current birthday celebrations and holiday celebrations.  She seemed to remember everyone's name and birthday and was always ready for your next visit; providing a comforting word of encouragement.    Everyone was always invited to join the family for a wonderful potluck Thanksgiving meal; and there was always plenty of food and deserts to eat.

Her life produced the fruits of: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Visitation will be Friday, March 15, at 1:00 PM, with Services following at 2:00 PM at Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison.  Graveside services will follow at Maplewood Cemetery.  Steve Powers will officiate.

Marilyn loved flowers, but donations in her memory may be made to Paragould Children's Home, 5515 Walcott Rd, Paragould, AR, 72450; Dees Cemetery Fund, 401 N. Cherry, Harrison, AR 72601 or Bellefonte Cemetery Fund, c/o Jim Witty, 28290 AR Hwy 123, Western Grove, AR 72685.