Marilyn Rochelle Bell

Marilyn Rochelle Bell, 86, of Enterprise, Alabama, passed away on April 18, 2026. Born on June 6, 1939, in Seagraves, Texas, to the late Raymond Bell Dicus and Elsie McShan Dicus, Marilyn was raised as an only child who discovered a world of wonder within the pages of books. This early curiosity blossomed into a lifelong passion for reading, learning, and the meticulous study of history.
A proud graduate of Denton High School, where she served as a majorette, Marilyn was deeply involved in her community from a young age, including serving as President of the Optimist Club. She began her professional career at the Denton Record-Chronicle before embarking on a new chapter in 1968 as a young military wife. Departing Denton to support her husband and the broader military community, she served her country with dedication for many years. Marilyn took great pride in her role as an officer's wife, finding deep fulfillment in mentoring younger generations of spouses and serving in various capacities within military wives' organizations. After raising her children and settling in Enterprise, she was a proud servant of the Coffee County DA's office until her retirement.
Her sharp mind and devotion to family history led her to become a genealogy wizard. As an active member of local and state chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Colonial Dames, she dedicated countless hours to tracing lineages and breathing life into the stories of her ancestors. Those who knew her well will remember her as an avid reader and crossword enthusiast who loved nothing more than a stimulating conversation about politics, finance, or history—ideally shared over a good glass of wine.
Marilyn was a traveler at heart. During her time stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany, she explored much of Europe with her family and friends. Later, alongside her longtime partner, Jim, or her granddaughter, Sunny, she embarked on numerous cruises and cross-country adventures, eventually reaching her goal of visiting all 50 states.
She leaves behind a rich legacy of intellect, service, and family. Marilyn is survived by her daughter, Ginger Alford; her son, Charles Montgomery Grahl; and her devoted partner, Jim Coodey and his daughter, Melissa (Matthew) Krol. Half siblings, David Dicus, John Dicus, and Susan Richards. Her memory will also be cherished by her grandchildren: Sunny (Jason) Mitchell, Christopher (Jiordeth) Alford, Casey (Daniel) Tenholder, Chase (Deanna) Grahl, and Chance (Yaimy) Grahl, Sawyer Krol; and 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom were the light of her later years.
A private family memorial will be held in her honor, with burial to take place in Splendora, Texas, in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her honor may be contributed to the Daughters of the American Revolution.