She is survived by:
One sister:
Ann Kirksey and husband Bob of Heavener, Oklahoma
Two nieces:
Shelly Perdue and husband Ralph of Heavener, Oklahoma
Edena Gains of Reading, Pennsylvania
Two nephews:
John Gregory of Heavener, Oklahoma
Jim Gregory and wife Cathy of Heavener, Oklahoma
Five great nieces:
Lauren Thornburg and husband Justin of Heavener, Oklahoma
Lindsey Ray and husband Jason of Stillwater, Oklahoma
Lexi Sullivan and husband Brice of Heavener, Oklahoma
Kaylessa Kirksey of Tulsa, Oklahoma
Journey Smallen and husband Dillion of Heavener, Oklahoma
Three great nephews:
Guy Gregory and wife Kim
MJ Gregory and wife Kayla
Kirksey Perdue
Five great-great-nieces:
Kenslee Thornburg, Piper, PJ, and Presley Sullivan, and Layla Ray
Five great-great-nephews:
Carter Stringfellow, Jace Thornburg, Justice Thornburg, and Laken and Baker Gregory
Her extended family that were like brothers:
Roger Clubb
Haven White and wife Jo
Russ White and wife Vicki
Beaver White and wife Janet
Numerous other loved ones and a host of friends
She was preceded in death by her parents, O.W. and Dovie Pledger; five siblings; three nephews, Craig Kirksey, Rocky Steffe, and Dana Gregory.
Marilyn, a beloved longtime resident of the Heavener and Poteau area, passed away after dedicating over 37 years to her profession as a Professional Bondsman for the State of Oklahoma. She was the proud owner and operator of Marilyn’s Bail Service and was deeply involved in her community. She was a 1965 graduate of Heavener High School. Marilyn was an active member of Heavener First Baptist Church, the Talihina Scenic Byways, the Leflore County Democratic Women, and the Oklahoma Bondsman Association. Her commitment to supporting local youth was evident through her enthusiastic participation in the Leflore County FFA & 4H Club Premium Sale and her support for the 633 Recovery Ranch. A passionate sports fan, Marilyn cheered for the OU Sooners, OSU Cowboys, Arkansas Razorbacks, OKC Thunder, and the USA Olympic Team. Marilyn cherished her time spent with family and friends, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and was known as “Aunt Marilyn” to all.
A Celebration of Marilyn’s life will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025 at the Heavener First Baptist Church in Heavener, Oklahoma with Brother Sam Dyer and Pastor Brock Hardin officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home.
To sign Marilyn’s online guestbook please visit www.dowdenrobertsfuneralhome.com.
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