Marianne Ulmer

1954 - 2025

Marianne Adkins Ulmer, a leading lady whose passion illuminated every stage she graced, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, at the age of 70.

Born on December 27, 1954, in Meridian, Mississippi, to the late George and Lois Adkins of Scooba, MS, Marianne was a radiant presence from the beginning. She was proud of her Mississippi roots, as well as her international experience as an Army brat in Germany.

Marianne spent most of her life as a teacher-first in the Starkville Public School system, and later in the Communications Department at Mississippi State University (MSU). She was also a dedicated member of the Starkville Community Theater. Through these activities, she inspired countless students and fellow actors to find their voice and own their moment in the spotlight. She was a woman of many talents and boundless energy. This made her a fierce competitor in
sports (volleyball, softball, golf), an entertaining musician (voice, accordion), a fantastic cook, a skilled seamstress, and a gracious hostess. She also loved animals, taking great care of her beloved pets (horses, donkeys, and her Corgi "babies").

Marianne is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Allen Ulmer. She leaves a legacy of love in her son, Curt Ulmer, and his wife, Kristy, along with her cherished grandchildren, Eva Kathryn Ulmer and Warren Marshall Ulmer, all of Olive Branch, MS. She will be remembered with great affection by her brother, Tom Adkins (Barb) of Starkville, MS, and her sister, Lisa A. Glass of Rock Hill, SC, her cherished cousins and their families, and her numerous lifelong friends. Marianne was also the fun-loving aunt to her nephews: Cody Adkins of Jackson, MS, Cole Glass (Elizabeth) of Birmingham, AL, and Kyle Glass (Lauren) of Greenville, SC, along with two great-nieces and one great-nephew.

Marianne's presence was a gift, and while she is deeply missed, her family, friends, students, and colleagues will forever treasure the unforgettable memories and the zest for life she shared with them.

The family would like to thank her caregivers and dear friends for their love and support throughout this journey.

A celebration of Marianne's dynamic life will be held at Welch Funeral Home in Starkville, MS, on Friday, November 7th, at 11:00 AM (visitation from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marianne's memory to endalz.org to support the fight against Alzheimer's.

You can leave the family a condolence at: www.welchfuneralhomes.com.