Marilyn Walker Stidham's Obituary
Marilyn Walker Stidham, a noted executive in Dallas-area philanthropic and educational work, died in Richardson on February 25th at age 75, after a long illness which she bore bravely.Born Lois Marilyn Walker on 6 June 1943 in Waco, she was the daughter of William R. and Lois Molbert Walker. She prided herself on her descent from colorful pioneer James Briton (Brit) Bailey, one of Stephen F. Austin’s 300, who settled on the Brazos River in 1818. Marilyn was raised in Tyler, and attended Stephen F. Austin State University. In 1965 she married Raymond (Ray) G Stidham, and they made their home in Richardson.Ms. Stidham served for 18 years as Director of Education for the Dallas Natural History Museum and also as Volunteer Manager for the Dallas Arboretum. She was later President of the Collin County Community on Aging (Meals on Wheels). Marilyn provided excellent care and support for for her siblings, her husband and daughters, many hundreds of volunteers, unwed mothers and the elderly. She did not suffer in silence if she saw injustice or a situation that could be improved. Her grace, intelligence and humor endeared her to co-workers, friends, family and clients alike. She loved art, sculpture and painting and was a gourmet cook.Marilyn is survived by her husband, Ray; daughters, Elissia S. Defoor (Mark J.), Arica L. Koster (Robert J.) and Amanda L. Stidham (Ryan A. Adkins); grandchildren Hannah S. Defoor, Stella L. Defoor, Logan T and Aden R. Koster and Avery L. Adkins; siblings Gay Nelle Peresky and James Walker; and many dear friends.Visitation will be Sunday, March 3rd, 3 to 5 p.m. at Restland Funeral Home in Richardson, and her funeral at the Restland Wildwood Chapel on Monday, March 4th at 9:30 a.m. Private burial will be at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. Donations may be made to Marilyn’s non-profits or the charity of your choice.
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