Marilyn Ann Walker

      Marilyn Walker, age 89, of Laingsburg, MI, formerly of Ovid, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
     A Celebration of Life will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Houghton Chapel, Ovid, MI, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, 1:00 P.M., with Carol Kusnier officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until the time of the service at the funeral home.
       Marilyn was born on April 17, 1937, in Chapin Township, Michigan, the daughter of Louie and Bernice (Nethaway) Perry. A graduate of Ovid High School, Marilyn married the love of her life, LeRoy Walker, on June 18, 1955, at the Walker family home in Ovid. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and friendship. Marilyn and LeRoy were truly inseparable—best friends, devoted partners, and each other’s greatest love for more than seven decades.
      Marilyn took great pride in being a homemaker, creating a home that was always welcoming, beautifully decorated, and filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats. Whether family stopped by unexpectedly or friends came to visit, they were greeted by a spotless home, perfectly made beds with her signature hospital corners, and often a plate of homemade cookies, pie, or her beloved monkey bread. Gifted with many talents, Marilyn enjoyed drawing, sewing, quilting, crocheting, and crafting. She lovingly shared those talents with others, creating countless handmade afghans, baby bibs, and treasured gifts for family and friends.
      Though naturally quiet, Marilyn possessed a quick wit that delighted those who knew her well. She enjoyed simple pleasures, including her favorite television shows, especially Little House on the Prairie and classic westerns. She had a special appreciation for sunsets and spent many evenings capturing their beauty with her camera, particularly during cherished summers at Tubbs Lake. She also had a love for sunflowers, whose bright and cheerful nature reflected the warmth and kindness she shared with those around her.
      Marilyn and LeRoy shared a love of travel and camping, creating lifelong memories with family and friends at places such as Tubbs Lake, Platte River, Houghton Lake, and their winter home- away-from-home in Florida. Their camping adventures became the source of many treasured stories and lasting friendships. Becoming grandparents brought Marilyn immense joy, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren, often taking them on camping trips and creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
       Above all, Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family. She held her siblings, children, grandchildren, and friends close to her heart and will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, quiet sense of humor, and unwavering love for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the countless memories she helped create.
      She is survived by her husband LeRoy Walker of Laingsburg, MI; daughter Cindy and Allan Bulemore of Owosso, MI; daughter Michele and Steve Halm of Laingsburg, MI; grandchildren: Melissa and Eric Jones of Ovid, MI; Jason and Krista Kusnier of Williamston, MI; Danielle and Matt Rann of Laingsburg, MI; Chase and Nicole Stambersky of Ventura, CA; Cole Stambersky of Mason, MI; Sarah and Lucas Pena of Dimondale, MI; Adam Halm of Lansing, MI; and Abagail and Jesus Halt-Martinez of Sandy, UT; 15 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters and one brother.
      Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Houghton Chapel, Ovid, Michigan.