Marilyn Jean McDermett

Marilyn Jean McDermett, 87, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026. She was born in Levelland, Texas on March 4, 1939, to Earl and Kathryn [St. Clair] McDermett. Marilyn lived a life devoted to faith, service, and love that touched countless lives.

A graduate of Levelland High School, Marilyn pursued her education with remarkable determination. She earned degrees from Lubbock Christian College, Abilene Christian College, and Pepperdine University. These academic achievements became the foundation for a distinguished career that spanned continents.

Marilyn’s professional journey reflected her commitment to education and service. She began her career at Korean Christian College, where she served as a dorm mother, teacher, and secretary for two years. Her dedication then led her to Washington, D.C., where she held various roles with distinction. She worked with the Marine Corps before transitioning to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and later the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), where she retired as Assistant Managing Director. In 1984, Marilyn was honored with the prestigious Silver Medal for Exceptional Service—an extraordinary accomplishment made even more remarkable when she later received the Gold Medal for Distinguished Service, becoming one of only two individuals at the time to have received both the Silver and Gold Awards. In 1999 she was awarded the Abilene Christian University Distinguished Alumni Citation and in 2014 she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Lubbock Christian University.

Marilyn’s life was deeply rooted in her unwavering faith in God. Baptized at an early age, she faithfully followed Him throughout her life. Her devotion led her to serve as a Bible class teacher and a speaker at ladies’ classes across several states. Through her faith-filled actions and words of encouragement, Marilyn inspired those around her and left an indelible mark on their hearts.

Beyond her professional and spiritual contributions, Marilyn found immense joy in photography. With a keen eye for God’s intricate designs in nature and meaningful moments with loved ones, she captured memories that brought joy to many. After retiring, she combined this passion with creativity by crafting beautiful cards featuring her photographs. Her talents extended further into knitting baby blankets, preparing meals for loved ones, writing heartfelt notes of encouragement, and giving generously of herself in countless ways.

Marilyn cherished her family deeply and expressed her love through thoughtful gestures that left lasting impressions on their lives. Her nieces and nephews held a special place in her heart; she adored them unconditionally, celebrated their joys, and carried them through their sorrows. Her legacy of kindness will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to know her.

Marilyn is survived by her loving family: sister Gayle McDermett Hensley Cole and brother-in-law Ed Cole; brother Buddy Earl McDermett and sister-in-law Rose McDermett; sister Cindra McDermett Box and brother-in-law Tommy Box; nieces: Hollye Conway (Larry), Heidee Whitaker (Lee), Shawna Cone (Caleb), Maranda Larsen (Troy); nephews: Greg Hensley (Jennifer), Renny McDermett (Sally), Keagan McDermett (Laci); grand-nieces: Charlotte Jolley (Ashley), Sarah McDermett, Kat Johnson (James), Ashley Whitaker, Sky McDermett, Melanie Salinas (Fred), Jacqueline Martinez (David], Sierra Hensley, Sophia McDermett, Grace Cone; grand-nephews: Andrew Conway (Raelyn), Micah Conway (Karri), Rystian McDermett (Kendal), Connor Whitaker (Becca), Thomas Cone, Grant Larsen, Kodiak Hensley, Holt Larsen; and many beloved friends.

She is also survived by her decades-long dear friend, Lynda Eubank.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her father and mother.

The family is grateful to the Shinnery Oaks Community for their care of Marilyn for the last two years.

Marilyn’s deep faith in God, her integrity, and her commitment to serving others will remain an enduring inspiration to all who knew her. Marilyn’s tremendous generosity, warm hospitality, and beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her memory bring comfort to those who mourn while celebrating the extraordinary life she lived.

May we honor Marilyn’s legacy of love and compassion in our lives. May we seek God’s presence each day; may we remember her warm embrace, her joyful spirit, and infectious laughter; may we cherish time spent with friends and family. May her memory remain a blessing in our lives.

Celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 11:00 am. at Lubbock Christian University, Cardwell Welcome Center Rotunda 5601 19th Street Lubbock, Texas.