Marilyn Jean Yoders

Marilyn Jean Yoders, 80, passed away unexpectedly in Columbia, TN on Friday, October 10, 2025. She is at peace and filled with happiness with her Lord Jesus Christ, shining down on us all.

Marilyn was born May 10, 1945 in Kearney, NE to Conrad and Christine Miller, growing up in Washburn, MO. She is preceded in death by her parents, her late husband Don Hibdon, infant child Leroy Catron, sister Margaret Claywell, brother Mike Miller, step-children Dwayne Hibdon and Darryl Hibdon.

She is survived by her loving husband, Retired US Navy DCCM E-9 Master Chief Larry Yoders of Columbia, TN, devoted children Debbie Russell and husband Don of Malvern, AR, Donna Catron Graham of Magdalena, NM, Dan Catron and wife Gina of Moxee, WA, stepdaughters Denise Ainsworth of Huntsvtille, TX, Lori McNeely and husband J.R. of Springhill, TN, Ilde Cook and husband Jim of Nolensville, TN, and sister-in-law Linda Miller of Seligman, MO.

Cherished grandchildren are Kristine Dupre of Onalaska, TX, Jacob Trawick of Magdalena, NM, Arnold Graham and Vivian Guyer of Bacliff, TX, LeAnna Graham of Lafayette, LA, Donald Russell and wife Lisa of Cabott, AR, Mike Russell and wife Catie of Peculiar, MO, Wyatt and wife Kierstin Catron of Arlington, WA, Ashlee Catron of Moxee, WA, Amanda Collins of Conroe, TX, Grahm McNeely of Springhill, TN, and Torrey, Ava and Eli Cook of Nolensville, TN.

Beloved great grandchildren are Logan and Vera Dupre of Houma, LA, Anastasia, Violette, Xyla and Marcie Graham of Bacliff, TX, Caleb Russell of Cabot, AR, Mason and Jackson Russell of Peculiar, MO, and Rhys Collins of Conroe, TX. Marilyn was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her newest great grandchild Masyn Catron, son of Wyatt and Kierstin.

Marilyn was the “Other Mother” to her girls Lisa Gast of Santa Fe, TX, Sandy Watson of San Leon, TX, Angie van der Meer of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, and so many more. Her love knew no boundaries.

As an adult she lived in many different places before settling in San Leon, TX. This is where she found her true home and raised Donna and Dan. She lived a life that she loved on the bay In Galveston County, where she would collect seashells to make beautiful artwork. She enjoyed live country music, and could be found on any dancefloor having the time of her life. Marilyn had what many people only hope for; a career that she loved. She worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, where she worked her way up to management level. Her career included the Sheraton in Webster, TX, The Victorian Hotel in Galveston, TX and Casa del Mar Beachfront Resort, also in Galveston. Marilyn was active in the tourism community, and was instrumental in the development and coordination of the “Winter Texans” at Casa del Mar. She never met a stranger, making each guest feel special and welcomed.

After Hurricane Ike devastated Galveston County in 2008, Marilyn moved to Nashville joining Donna and Jacob, where she started a new chapter. She and her daughter Donna discovered and made friends with many in the songwriting community. One of her all time favorite passions was to attend “Songwriters Rounds” where new songs could be heard for the first time. Douglas Corner Café and The Commodore were her favorite venues. Country music flowed thru her veins. She could pick a country music hit before it had even been released.

Four years later she met Larry, and found love again. They were married on April 7, 2013 in a beautiful outdoor Tennessee country wedding, and were married until her passing. Marilyn enjoyed the beauty of Tennessee, endless rolling hills, wildflowers and country music life that she had not known before. Larry and Marilyn traveled often, creating lasting memories.

Anyone who knew Marilyn, knew she was warm, funny, and endlessly kind. She made ordinary days feel special. She taught her children how to be brave, to love deeply, to be kind and to laugh often. She had a smile that would shine bright, even on the darkest days. A friend to all that met her. Her grandchildren always felt her love for them. She believed in her children and grandchildren even when they did not believe in themselves. Her stepdaughter Denise stated that Marilyn always made her feel special and loved, like Denise was one of her own. She will be tremendously missed, and we will keep her love and laughter alive.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Details will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, please donate to any Alzheimer’s organization, or a charity that is close to your heart.

The family appreciates all your love and support during this very difficult time.