Marilyn graduated from Fayetteville High School in 1954 and went on to attend the Arkansas Baptist School of Nursing in Little Rock. After graduation from nurse's training, Marilyn married the love of her life, Glenn M. Cooper on January 24, 1959. As newlyweds they moved to Glenn's hometown of Monticello and quickly made a full life there, raising their two children and helping those in the community.
Marilyn was a true people person. She connected with people wherever she went and was the happiest when she was surrounded by her many friends. She exemplified hospitality, and the Cooper house was always open for any type of celebration, whether it was just neighborhood kids hanging out, building the floats for MHS Homecoming, prom parties, open houses, photo shoots, and even the occasional fraternity party. She was an exceptional cook and loved being a gracious hostess for any gathering, large or small, and for several years she catered local parties and weddings. Marilyn will always be remembered for her homemade yeast rolls and mouth-watering Delta hot tamales that she made so often for family and friends.
She was a wonderful mother and immersed herself in her children's school and extracurricular activities, cheering on the Billies, and attending every baseball game, choir concert, and dance recital. Marilyn's friendly and warm presence helped to create many special childhood memories for both her children and their friends.
Marilyn had a heart for others and served the Monticello community in many ways. As a new bride, she was a mentor to local candy stripers, encouraging young women interested in nursing. She was an active member of Monticello Junior Auxiliary for many years. Marilyn was also a founding board member of Options, Inc., an organization that serves victims of domestic violence in southeast Arkansas. She was a stalwart member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church and was active for many years as a Lay Reader, Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and a member of the Vestry and Altar Guild.
She is survived by her children, Martin Cooper and wife Dana Cooper of Shawnee, KS and Sarah Doering and husband Bill Doering of Eagle, ID; sisters Jan Conine of Roland, AR and Susan Bryant of San Rafael, CA; and her five beloved grandchildren: Mason Cooper, Natalie Cooper, Will Doering, Drew Doering, and Sean Doering. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn, and her parents Tom and Marguerite Hudson.
A memorial service is planned for 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 13th at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Monticello. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate/ or to St. Mary's Episcopal Church, PO Box 193, Monticello, AR 71657
Condolences(4)
Joanne Ferguson
Cathedral City, CA Thursday, May 4, 2023 Marilyn and I graduated from Fayetteville HS in 1954 together. We go back a long ways and continued our friendship over 70 years. We were both members of the Hi-Si Sorority and enjoyed bunkin parties (sleep overs). Marilyn’s husband Glenn and my husband George became fast friends and we celebrated many happy moments throughout our lifetime. I will miss my dear friend Marilyn, her sweet smile and endless good times. Love you my friend!Pat Matthews
Maumelle, AR Wednesday, April 26, 2023 Marilyn and I were friends and neighbors for many years. We first met when my son, Bynum, and Sarah were in a preschool program at the Baptist Home Gym, that was probably 50 Years ago. Marilyn was a very upbeat positive person.Pat Matthews.
Dianne Lloyd
Monticello, AR Friday, April 21, 2023 Marylyn and I had a long friendship, that goes back to the 60!s when we both came to Monticello as brides. She was so much fun to be with. Thoughts and prayers to Martin, and Sarah. She will be missed.Dianne
Elgenia Ross
Monticello, AR Wednesday, April 19, 2023 I am so sorry to hear this sad news about Marilyn. She was a dear friend to all who knew her.Her home was the place where Sarah's school friends gathered to have many fun times!
Marilyn will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of her family.
Elgenia