Marilyn Smith

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Marilyn Gwen Smith, 80, of Neosho, Missouri passed away August 28, 2022 in her home.

Marilyn was born October 16, 1941 in Mankato, Minnesota to Fritz and Mabel (Kittleson) Schiebel. 

She is preceded in death by her brother, Jerrold “Jerry” Schiebel and sister, Joyce Poelvoorde. 

Marilyn is survived by her two daughters Kristin Abbott and husband John of Palmyra, Missouri and Tracy Smith Clyburn and husband Brandon of St. Louis, Missouri; her sister Florence (Ron) Johnson of Canyon Lake, Texas; her four beloved grandchildren Peyton and McKenna Abbott and Mason and Ainsley Clyburn; and several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn attended Mankato High school and went on to receive a secretarial certificate. Her early career in office work led her to work for a travel agency which afforded her trips to the Bahamas, Mexico and eventually Hawaii where she lived for a short while. Later, she began a life-long passion of breeding dogs.

Marilyn was an animal lover and always had a related story to share. Her daughters and grandchildren relished hearing these stories like the childhood pet duck she walked on a leash to swim in the creek or the backyard squirrel that made her laugh when he couldn’t climb the greased bird feeder pole. She was a nature lover that saw beauty in her backyard flowers or a wind-swept wheat field that she said reminded her of ocean waves. 

Marilyn was a highly independent, capable woman even in her sunset years, which served as an excellent example for her growing daughters. She was a clever, resourceful problem solver. When her riding mower once needed a new battery, rather than pay to have it hauled in for repair, she borrowed a book from the library and changed it herself, fully impressing her pre-teen daughter. 

She had a great sense of humor and appreciated funny stories about family pets or grandchildren and saved the letters and notes about the stories so she could reflect back and laugh. Those who loved her will miss her hearty laugh.

According to her wishes, no services are planned. Cremation is under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho. For those that would like to honor her memory, consider donating to a wildlife rescue center or trusted pet adoption agency or simply take in nature’s beauty and think of Marilyn.