Marilyn Norton Elder

Marilyn Norton Elder passed away on November 3, 2024 at the age of 83 in Jacksonville. Born on February 15, 1941, Marilyn resided in Jacksonville nearly her entire life, and was a graduate of Lee High School, class of 1959. She was married to her loving husband Ken Elder for 20 years, and together they built a life filled with love, togetherness, and countless cherished moments. A lifelong Christian, Marilyn was a faithful and committed member of Deermeadows Baptist Church for nearly three decades.

In her early years as a talented singer and pianist, she enjoyed a successful career as a professional soloist at several of Jacksonville area churches, and served as Music Director at Callahan First Baptist Church during the mid-1970’s. A strong, independent woman, she eventually pursued her ultimate passion, child care and early learning, where she owned and operated a successful daycare business in Jacksonville for two decades. Marilyn also served as the Weekday Preschool Director at Deermeadows Baptist Church for several years, further dedicating her time to nurturing young lives. 

During her early retirement years, Marilyn worked along-side her husband Ken, serving as food services directors in the Deermeadows Baptist Church kitchen. Ken went on to be with the Lord in late 2021, and in the years that followed, Marilyn found joy in spending time with family, dining out, reminiscing about her early years growing up on Kingsley Lake, and enjoying TV time with her devoted and loyal companion Angel (also known as “Babygirl”) always by her side.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband Ken, and parents George and Melba Norton. She is survived by her sister Kay Bailey (Jim), daughter Patti Wright (Greg), sons Jimmy Parrish (Landra), Brad Parrish (Teresa), grandchildren (Hayley, Hunter, Harrison, Brittany, Kayla, Rhianna, and Katie), many beloved great-grandchildren, and her niece Allison. Marilyn was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, she will be deeply missed.

A service to honor Marilyn's life was held at Deermeadows Baptist Church in Jacksonville on November 12, 2024.