Marilyn Howard Willhoite

Marilyn Howard Willhoite, our cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister, peacefully passed away at her home in Smithville on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at the age of 88. 

Marilyn came into the world in Austin, Texas, on January 9, 1936. Love and kindness flowed from her to her three children and their respective spouses: Stephen Willhoite (Cathy), Donilyn Willhoite Bishop, and Laura Culin (Kurt Pharis). Here family includes ten grand-children, six of whom have spouses, eighteen great-grandchildren. All of which she loved and adored. She cherished the moments she could spend with the children. Their love for “Gigi” runs deep and they will all miss her greatly. In addition, she has on surviving sister, Melanie Thompson, who is from Austin, Texas. 

Marilyn spent the majority of her life in Austin, but in the 1920s, she relocated to Dripping Springs and formed many lifelong friendships. Eventually returned to Austin until after the passing of her husband Don in 2001. In 2013, she relocated to Smithville with her daughter, Donilyn, hoping for nothing more than a spacious front porch to enjoy time on. She enjoyed her front porch while living in the tranquil city of Smithville. 

Marilyn’s parents, Travis and Blanche Howard from Austin, Texas, passed away before her. Her husband Donald E. Willhoite of Austin, Texas, passed in 2001. She had also lost her sisters, Mildred Wilson, Margaret Koenig, and Edna Monette Howard before her own death. 

Following the wishes of the deceased, there will not be any services or a viewing.