Marilyn Claire Stevens

Marilyn Claire (Edgmon) Stevens was born in Purcell, OK, on April 18, 1947, the only child of Ward & Clara (Fischer) Edgmon. After graduating from high school, she went to the University of Oklahoma, earning a bachelor’s degree in medical technology. On her 20th birthday, a young man showed up to take her out on a blind date. Two weeks later, he asked her to marry him, but she didn’t say “yes.” Instead, she replied, “I thought you’d never ask!” Dave and Marilyn married on August 19, 1967.

Not long after they graduated from college in 1968, Dave was drafted into the Army. While he was in basic training, Marilyn learned she was pregnant with their first child, Stephanie, who arrived in October 1969. Dave returned safely from Vietnam, and they made a home together in Houston, where they welcomed their second child, Brian, in October 1973. After both children were in school, Marilyn returned to work, this time as a secretary and administrative assistant to two research scientists in the Houston Medical Center.

After Marilyn retired and as Dave was moving toward retirement, they moved to Bellville, TX. She loved the small town and was very involved at Bellville Methodist Church, where she taught an adult Sunday School class and sang in the choir. Music was always a big part of Marilyn’s life. She took piano lessons as a child and played flute in high school. As an adult, she studied classical guitar for many years and taught beginner guitar classes at church. Later, she took up the cello, which she played the rest of her adult life.

Marilyn did an amazing variety and amount of handwork throughout her life, including macrame, sewing, needlepoint, cross-stitch, crocheting, knitting, and quilting. She was especially active with the Bluebonnet Quilt Guild – getting together with her quilting friends for meetings, retreats, and festivals, and serving as President of the Guild. All her creations are beautiful and impeccably crafted.

Marilyn traveled extensively with the family, and after she and Dave became empty nesters, they continued their adventures together. They enjoyed riding their tandem bicycle; they traveled internationally; and they drove many miles around the country in their motorhome, visiting children and grandchildren, seeing the sights, and enjoying all life has to offer.

Sadly, shortly after Marilyn turned 70, her memory began failing her. She suffered the losses and indignities of dementia in her final years, with her husband Dave always at her side. Marilyn completed her baptismal journey on May 27, 2026, at home with her family. She is survived by her husband, John David Stevens, III; daughter Stephanie; son Brian; daughter-in-law Renee; and grandchildren Ainsley and Logan Stevens.

Marilyn loved to laugh and was quick to laugh at herself. Anything she did, she was committed to doing well. She was smart and always well-dressed. She treasured her family and her friendships, and we are all grateful for having been part of her life.

Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord. (Matthew 25:21)

A memorial service was held at Bellville Methodist Church on June 2. Burial will be at her family’s plot in Purcell, Oklahoma.

The Stevens family wishes to thank Amedisys Hospice Care for their wonderful help and support during the last two weeks of Marilyn’s life. You made a very difficult time a bit easier.

Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the:

Bellville Methodist Church Music Program

PO Box 188

Bellville, Texas 77418