Marilyn Paul Nelson

Marilyn Paul Nelson, 78, of Los Angeles, California, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025.

She was born on November 4, 1946, in Ogden, Utah, to Thomas Robert Paul and Ellen Ruth (Gealta) Paul, who preceded her in death. Marilyn was the third of eight children in a very close-knit family, a bond that shaped her life and remained a source of strength and joy throughout the years. Marilyn graduated from Ogden High School in 1965 and attended the University of Utah.

On August 25, 1967, Marilyn married Wade England Wayment, and together they welcomed a beautiful daughter, Aleisha, whom they both loved and adored. After their divorce, Marilyn later married Gregory Paul Nelson on June 30, 1978, and although they eventually divorced, they shared many years together. Marilyn was later fortunate to have another daughter, Marisa, who brought her immeasurable joy. Marilyn deeply loved her daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, often saying her greatest achievement in life was her children and how proud she was of the people they had become.

Marilyn was gifted with extraordinary creativity and an eye for elegant design, building a lifelong career as an interior designer for more than 45 years. Her remarkable talent brought warmth, elegance, beauty, and functionality into every space she touched. From private residences to commercial projects, Marilyn’s designs reflected her ability to blend beauty with purpose, leaving a lasting impression on clients and colleagues alike. She took immense pride in her work and found joy in helping others create homes and spaces where they could truly flourish. Marilyn began her design career in Salt Lake City before relocating and expanding her firm to Park City, Utah where she achieved much success and became involved in the Sundance Film Festival serving on the board of directors. Eventually she relocated her business one more time to Los Angeles, where she lived and worked for more than 35 years.

Alongside her design career, Marilyn had a deep passion for writing and research. She wrote screenplays and other creative works, pouring her imagination and curiosity into stories that reflected her unique perspective and creativity. Writing gave her joy and served as another outlet for her extraordinary talents.

She was also a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, living her faith through generosity, kindness, and love for her family and friends. Over the years, she faithfully served in many callings and roles, offering her time and talents to strengthen her ward and community.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Aleisha (Matt) Schoffman and Marisa (Francis) Lazatin, and her beloved grandchildren, Grace, Ivy, Zoe, and Jack. Marilyn is also survived by her siblings, Kristine Paul, Dianne Montgomery, Jeanne (Ed) Shimokawa, Linda (Dave) Olsen, Robert (Nancy) Paul, Michael (Melodee) Paul, and Cherie Paul, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who adored her. Marilyn was endlessly generous, cared for everyone in her family, and was deeply loved in return.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Friends may visit with family on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment, Ogden City Cemetery.

Marilyn’s legacy of love, generosity, and beauty will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.