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funeral arrangementMarilyn Jean (Sheets) Johnston, formerly of Poteau, OK entered into the presence of the Lord very peacefully, December 24, 2014 in Sapulpa, OK at the age of 79 years. (Psalm 116:15) Marilyn was born December 2, 1935 in Alva, OK to M.R. “Rex” and Grace (Korn) Sheets. She was raised and received her education in Woodward, OK, graduating Woodward HS. In 1954, Marilyn married Gary Johnston in Woodward. They moved to Poteau in 1962, where they made their home. During 24 years of marriage, three daughters were born. She received her B.S. in elementary education in 1982 at NSU. Marilyn worked for the State of Oklahoma as a social worker for 21 years; 17 of those spent in the nursing home program of DHS. She was a hard worker and an overcomer, and was involved in various organizations including “Meals on Wheels”, helped found a women’s crisis center in Poteau, and was active in Girl Scouts and the Poteau Band Boosters for many years. Marilyn was a lover of animals, having rescued and located homes for 27 dogs. She volunteered at the Christian Free Clinic, the Hospital Guild. As a member of the First United Methodist Church in Poteau, she was involved in the Methodist Women’s Group. She was very involved in outreach programs to nursing home residents such as participating in pet therapy. Family was important to Marilyn, evidenced by her loving devotion to her parents. She loved being a Mama to her daughters; the kind her daughters wanted to emulate.

Those that survive include her daughters – Linda Sue Johnston of Owasso, Cynthia (Cindy) Lynne Woolbright and husband Joe of Bethalto, IL and Donna Jean Johnston of Dodge City, KS. Also surviving is her precious granddaughter Allison Grace Woolbright, who called her “Grammy”. She has a brother Dr. Ronald R. Sheets and wife Sharon of Loveland, CO along with several nieces and nephews, and many extended relatives who survive her. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents.

There will be a private family graveside service Tuesday, December 30th at the Elmwood Cemetery in Woodward, OK. Memorial services will at 2:00 pm Friday, January 2, 2015 in the chapel of Mowery Funeral Service with Pastor Steve Johnson officiating. Those that would like to honor Marilyn’s memory may do so by contributing to either the ASPCA or to the Poteau Valley Humane Society.