Ravenna, Texas -- Marilyn LaNell McGrew, born Marilyn LaNell Archer, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, went home to be with Jesus on January 20, 2026, just one day shy of her 85th birthday. She was born prematurely on January 21, 1941, at her family’s home in Big Spring, Texas, to William and Clara Archer.

Marilyn was a devout Christian whose life was a quiet but powerful testimony of faith. She was a longtime member of Corinth Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for many years by teaching Sunday school, singing in the church choir, and handling the church’s financial books, a role she carried out with integrity, dedication, and a servant’s heart.

She shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Ron McGrew. Together, they began their life in West Texas and later made their home in North Texas, where Marilyn devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family. Her greatest joy was caring for others. She was an accomplished seamstress who lovingly made blankets for each of her grandchildren and sewed her children’s clothes when they were young, stitching love into every piece. Her home was always welcoming, her kitchen always ready, and no one ever left hungry.

Marilyn lived by the words she and Ron often shared, “Let go, let God,” and she fondly adopted her daughter Elaina’s phrase, “It is what it is,” as her own, both reflections of her steady faith and grace-filled outlook on life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Clara Archer; two of her daughters, Elaina Clark and Shari Brodrick; her grandson, Jeron McGrew; and many other beloved family members.

Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Ron McGrew; her daughter, Jackie Adams, and husband Don; her son, James McGrew, and wife Tina; her siblings, Barbara Gruben and Roy Archer; along with many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild, and many extended family members who loved her dearly.

A memorial service celebrating Marilyn’s life will be held on Sunday, February 1, at 2:00 p.m. at Corinth Baptist Church, located at 277 County Road 1150, Ravenna, Texas.

Marilyn will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the selfless way she cared for everyone around her. Her life reflected the truth of her favorite Scripture: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

While her family grieves her loss, they rejoice knowing she is whole, restored, and at peace in the presence of her Savior.