Marilyn S. Williams, age 59, of 1013 Superior Avenue; Gladstone, passed away Thursday, January 31st, 2008, at home surrounded by loving family members.

Marilyn was born November 9th, 1948 in the “Buckeye” area of Gladstone, the daughter of Phillip and Bernadette (Roberts) Shannon and was a lifelong Gladstone resident. On February 26th, 1972 she married Louis J. “Louie” Williams in Gladstone and he remains her devoted partner in life.

Marilyn Williams is a member the Community Church of Christ in Gladstone. Decorating her home and flower-gardening were hallmark traits of Marilyn. However, gathering with , family members, especially with her grandchildren, were the most special occasions that she treasured. Her children remember her as the “greatest mother” and they remember all the special foods that were prepared for them by Marilyn, including her “famous boiled dinners”.

During her long illness, Marilyn was an inspiration to family and friends by her ability to remain upbeat, never giving up, and not complaining about her own discomfort. She will be sadly missed but her faith in God has given comfort to her family.

In addition to her loving husband, “Louie” Williams, Marilyn’s survivors include:

2 Sons- Kevin (Socorro) Smith of Reno, Nevada; Todd (Tracy) Williams of Escanaba

3 Daughter- Candy (Gary) Tryan of Escanaba; Nichole (Mark) Wingo of Hermansville; Angela (Tim) Beauvais of Escanaba

3 Step-daughters- Tammy, Joanie, and Carol, all of Gladstone

6 Sisters- Beverly Goodchild of Escanaba; Maxine (Jim) Wellman of Ford River; Kathy (Denny) Wellman of Ford River; Barbara Shannon of Powers; Colleen (Mike) Belanger of Gladstone; Nancy (Derwith) Carlson of Escanaba

9 grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her puppy, “Gracie Mae”.

In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by a brother, Phillip Shannon, Jr., and by an infant sister, Barbara Shannon. She was also preceded by her father-in-law, Louis Williams, Sr.

The family of Marilyn S. Williams will receive friends on Monday at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Services celebrating Marilyn’s life will follow on Monday at 5:00 p.m. at the Skradski Funeral Home with Elder Donna Ritchie and Elder Mike Belanger officiating. Luncheon will follow services at the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post #71. Burial will be in the Fernwood Cemetery. The Skradski-Boyce Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Williams family.