Marilyn Odett Grant

Marilyn Grant (nee Maxwell), 78, passed away on December 27, 2023, in Tyler, Texas. While we are deeply saddened at her passing, she faced terminal bladder cancer with remarkable grace and power, embodying strength throughout her journey and we take comfort that she is now at peace.

Born on November 29, 1945, in Everman, TX, Marilyn was the second daughter of Odett and Eugene Maxwell. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Janice and Eugene Jr., and her beloved husband, Roger Grant.

Marilyn's educational journey began at Wayland Baptist College, where she earned her B.S. in Biology and Physical Education. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Roger Grant, and the two were married on August 28, 1967. Marilyn furthered her education with an M.S. in Education from North Texas State University, setting the stage for a remarkable 35-year teaching career as a high school biology teacher. At Alpine High School, she also served as the UIL Debate Coach and loved helping her team excel at meets, making it to the state competition on a few occasions.

Marilyn's life outside of work was filled with singing, books, golf, and laughs with friends. During summers when school was out, she played almost daily rounds of golf with her husband or with her ladies' golf group. Marilyn travelled around the state with this group to play in tournaments where she sometimes received the prize for the longest drive from the tee box. Off the golf course, she loved spending time with the many friends she made over the years and cherished all the laughs that were had. Even up until her death, she was a voracious reader- often reading multiple books at one time.

Marilyn is survived by her son Darren Grant and wife Cyndal of Tyler, Texas, daughter Kari Grant and husband Lee Robinson of Austin, Texas, and grandchildren Damian, Elise, Gracie, Brailey, and Slaiden. In celebrating Marilyn's life, we remember her as a woman of unwavering strength, resilience, and boundless love. May her memory be a source of inspiration to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following charities:

Literacy Texas https://www.literacytexas.org/

Girlstart https://girlstart.org/

Texas Golf Association Foundation https://www.txga.org/tgafoundation/