Marilyn Parsley Floyd, 82, departed this life on December 4, 2023. Marilyn was born September 17, 1941 to Ray and Ada Austin Parsley in Moro, Arkansas. She lived all her early life in the small farming community in eastern Arkansas, graduating from Marianna High School as Salutatorian of her class.
She married Benny Floyd on December 12, 1959; she passed away just 9 days prior to their 64th wedding anniversary. Over the years Marilyn and Benny lived in Brinkley, Wheatley, Heber Springs and Cabot, where they eventually retired.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Lois Stewart (T.J.), Carla Cole (Clifton) and Lucille Summar; and two brothers, Harold R. Parsley (Dean) and Robert L. Parsley.
Marilyn leaves behind her husband, Benny; son, Terry (Ellen) Floyd; daughter, Felicia (Greg) Hogue; and one granddaughter, Emily Floyd; one niece; four nephews; one sister-in-law, Betty Parsley and one brother-in-law, John Summar.
After her children, Terry and Felicia, finished college, Marilyn then went on to attend college herself at UCA majoring in accounting and graduated with honors in 1990 at the age of 49. Marilyn went on to open an accounting practice eventually retiring.
She and Benny had the opportunity to travel extensively all over the world, they explored Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Hawaii, Alaska and most of the continental United States, their favorite place of travel was New Zealand.
In her younger years, she enjoyed working in the garden and canning vegetables and jellies. Marilyn also enjoyed quilting, needlepoint, baking and working puzzles. She worked on an extensive family genealogy research project for the Parsley, Austin and Eason families, this project led her to take a trip to the Family Search Library in Salt Lake City, Marilyn gave all of her research findings to family members.
Marilyn hosted many cousins’ parties over the years where there were always great pies and a good game of horseshoes and dominos.
A very special thank you goes to the angels at The Blake, Pam and Kayla. Their care and compassion for both Marilyn and Benny will be appreciated.
Visitation will be December 8, 2023 from 12:00PM – 1:00PM at CenterPoint Baptist Church in Hazen, Arkansas, Funeral service at 1:00PM with burial immediately following in CenterPoint Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the CenterPoint Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 273 Hazen, Arkansas 72064.
Marilyn was married to my cousin, Benny. When my sisters and I were growing up we always thought she was so beautiful. She had beautiful blonde hair and she looked like a Barbie doll. She also was such a sweet lady.y mom dearly loved Marilyn. I am so sorry for your loss. Many prayers for Benny and his family.
My heart is broken to hear about Marilyn. Marilyn and Benny are two of the most precious people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. My family so enjoyed their homemade ice cream at a couple of our family gatherings. I met Marilyn and Benny at church and always looked forward to seeing them on Sundays. I had some very special visits with them in their home that I will always cherish. I am keeping Benny and the family in my thoughts and prayers.
We are so sorry to hear about Marilyn’s passing. We moved next door to Benny and Marilyn in 2011 and we truly cherished their friendship that immediately began. Over the years we enjoyed getting to know each other and spending time just chatting and always looked forward to a slice of pie! We know Marilyn loved watching our then infant son grow up over the years as he would often play in front of their house, many times with a toy of his ending up in their backyard. Marilyn will be greatly missed, and we are thankful the years we knew her. Benny and the family are in our thoughts and prayers.
James, Amber, and Hudson
I only met Marilyn and Benny this year and wished I would have met them years ago. Marilyn was such a kind soul with a beautiful smile and spirit. I will miss her. She was definitely a child of God and a blessing to many. She will be missed by many. Benny and family are in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to learn of Marilyn’s passing. What a kind and gracious lady she was. Benny , my heart is hurting for you.
Tom Garrett
So sorry to hear about your mom. Althoughwe didn’t have the chance to meet her, we know what a beautiful daughter she raised.
I spent many hours in the Floyd’s home as a young person in Heber Springs. Mrs. Floyd truly became a second mom to me. I am terribly saddened to hear about this and mourn her loss. My deepest sympathy to Mr. Benny, my buddy and former roommate Terry, Felicia, and the entire family.
We are praying for her family and friends. We attended church with her in Ward at Charity Baptist. She was so nice and welcomed us with open arms. She was a special lady and will be greatly missed.
We first met Marilyn on a train trip to Alaska many years ago. A lovely lady with a Southern accent engaged us with friendly chatter. That was Marilyn, and a friendship was born. We spent time with Marilyn and Benny, travelling and visiting each other in our home countries on various occasions. Marilyn was always the perfect host ensuring that we experienced her strong belief in Southern hospitality – Arkansas style – and it was wonderful. We are deeply saddened that we have lost our friend Marilyn, and we send our deepest condolences to Benny and the family. Marilyn will be in our hearts always.
Martha and I are so sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing. You and the rest of your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim and Martha Moellenberndt