Marilyn Leigh Martin, age 80, passed away peacefully June 29, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She lived an extraordinary life full of generosity and grace. Marilyn was born on Jan. 1, 1943 in Kansas City, Mo. to her mother, Dorothy Cole Martin and her father, James Cole. Her father passed away early in her life, so Marilyn and her sister Marty were raised by their strong single mother who taught her to choose the best path for herself even if it meant facing challenges. After Marilyn divorced, she moved to Camdenton, Mo. to begin a new life for herself and her children. She worked tirelessly for her family and community, especially for those who needed help the most.
Marilyn served as the Executive Director of Lake of the Ozarks Developmental Center in Camdenton for 38 years, from August 1983 through January 2021. She provided exceptional leadership and dedication to her staff and the individuals they support with developmental disabilities. In 2000, Marilyn was honored as the 2000 Business Associate of the Year by the American Business Women’s Association. Following her retirement in January 2021, Marilyn joined the Lake of the Ozarks Developmental Center Board of Directors. She leaves behind a legacy of achievements such as developing programs for independent living, employment, art workshops, and respite care. Marilyn also made sure that the people of the LODC community had opportunities to find joy with Halloween parties, Valentine Dances, friendship around the fire pit, and Karaoke!!
In her retirement, she was busy with volunteer work, travel, and friends. Marilyn also found time to join a “gang”, the Granny Gang, which was made up of her best friends. They were often seen at Lebanon high school sports celebrations, Homecoming, and community food preparation events. The “gang” will have one less shining smile around town.
If you knew Marilyn, she possibly cooked for you. One of her favorite things was to have family under one roof, and to make family recipes to share. She was also an artist at heart, with an eye for fine detail. This was shown in her beautiful handwriting, decorating for holidays, and perfectly wrapped gifts she made for each person. Her attention to detail was incredible, and you knew that she paid attention to everyone in every moment.
Marilyn’s greatest moments in her life were the times surrounded by family, which seemed to keep growing! Her house was always buzzing with laughter, stories of the past, rummaging through boxes of family photos, running children and dogs, and the sweet smell of her peppermint cookies.
She is survived by her three children: Kelly (Greg) Zullig of Leawood, Kan.; Mark (Rebecca) Martin of Springfield, Mo.; Michael (Michelle) Martin of San Francisco, Calif.; her niece Margie (Mike) Brown of Leawood, Kan.; grandchildren: Cole Martin, Emma Zullig, Mika Martin and Olivia Zullig. And many nieces and nephews!
Marilyn was also a devoted member of the Community Christian Church in Lebanon, Mo.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Lake of the Ozarks Developmental Center, PO Box 753, Camdenton, Mo. 65020
Please join us in celebrating Marilyn’s vibrant life on Saturday afternoon July 22, 2023, 1:00 - 3:00 at the Mills Center, 650 Mills Drive in Lebanon, Mo. We welcome all who have had the honor of knowing Marilyn.
