Marilyn Rose Powers, of McKinney, Texas, passed away on October 26, 2023 at the age of 92. She was born on June 20, 1931, in Arcola, Illinois, to loving parents Willard and Wanda Leona (Edgar) Cuskaden. On February 22, 1953, she embarked on a lifelong journey of love and commitment when she married the late Willard Creighton Powers at University Place Christian Church in Champaign, Illinois.
Marilyn's unwavering faith was an integral part of her life. She was a dedicated member of Wayzata Community Church in Wayzata, Minnesota, where she participated in many church projects. She was proudest of her part to bring into reality the WCC Columbarium and memorial garden; as a place for the living to remember and reflect on the lives of departed loved ones. She was a cherished member of the Thimble Bee's. Her deep connection to her church community was a testament to her faith and the kindness.
Marilyn had a passion for people, reading and gardening. Those interests brought her solace and peace in the face of the loss of her husband Willard, and her daughter Valerie. She used that strength to walk alongside others on their journeys through grief. Her enthusiasm for life was infectious, and she inspired those around her to find joy in the simple pleasures of existence. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were delighted to discover that after WWII, while working as a bookkeeper at an airport, she learned to fly a plane.
Marilyn is survived by her loving daughter, Laura Thomas of McKinney, Texas; her sister Joyce Snider of Urbana, Illinois; her grandchildren, William Thomas and wife Lauren of Frisco, Texas, Katherine Contorno and husband Paul of Spring, Texas, Rachel Smith and husband Tyler of Celina, Texas; and her great-grandchildren, Charles Kosoris, Bridgland Smith, Liliana Ferracioli, and Isabella Ferracioli. Her loyalty, steadfast love, and joy in family leaves a lasting legacy and guiding light for those many beloved family members and treasured friends who sheltered under the vast umbrella of her long life of kindness, wisdom, and love. She had you in her heart always.