Marilyn S. Wilson

Marilyn S. Wilson of Eugene passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026. She was nearly 95 years old. Marilyn was born on March 5, 1931, in Fort Collins, CO to Elizabeth and Ambrose Sherred. After her parents divorced, she was raised by her mother in Placentia, CA where she graduated from Valencia High School in 1948. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California in 1952.

In 1954, Marilyn married Joseph G. Eimers and moved to Madrid. Following their divorce, she relocated to Rome in 1955, where she later met Ray Wilson. They were married and returned to the United States in 1957, where they began their family and welcomed two sons.

Over the years, the family lived across the US and would eventually call Eugene home. After their sons graduated from South Eugene High School, Marilyn and Ray spent 18 months living in American Samoa. Ray passed away in Pago Pago in 1981.

Marilyn returned to Eugene, where she lived for the remainder of her life and became a devoted grandmother to four grandchildren.

A dedicated fan of the Oregon Ducks, Marilyn was a football season ticket holder for more than 25 years and never missed a home game. Her tailgate parties at Autzen Stadium became legendary. Even after she could no longer attend games in person, she continued hosting spirited tailgates at her retirement home, bringing people together with the same enthusiasm and warmth that defined her life. Marilyn was a treasured resident of Willamette Oaks for over 10 years and made sure no one missed a Duck game on TV. GO DUCKS!

Marilyn was celebrated by her colleagues upon her retirement from PeaceHealth in 2007 at the age of 76 after 26 years at Sacred Heart, working in Nursing Services. She was known for her incredible work ethic, patience, and kindness toward everyone she worked with. Her retirement party included appearances from the Oregon Duck and University of Oregon Cheerleaders.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Wilson (1981); her son, Ethan Wilson (2017); and her grandson, Nick Wilson (2001). She is survived by her son, Addison Wilson of Portland; her granddaughters, Haley of Portland and Kyla of Albany; her grandson, Caleb of Albany; her daughters-in-law, Jill and Mindy; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn's memory may be made to the Nick Wilson Charitable Group, PO Box 80852, Portland, OR, 97280 (nickwilsoncg.org).