Marilyn Anne Orrison, a woman who loved being able to give to others, died surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Marilyn, 83, of Potterville, was born on June 24, 1942, in Lansing, the daughter of Curtis and Myrtle (Brenner) Bartlett. She proudly worked as a Manager for Shepard Shoes in Lansing. On June 30, 1979, Marilyn married David Orrison and together they spent the next 39 years creating their legacy until his passing in 2018. She proudly worked alongside David running the office for David J. Orrison Inc. Traveling the world was a big part of her life, she and David took in many trips over the years. Marilyn was a proud Master Gardner and loved working in her flower gardens. Other hobbies that she enjoyed included bird watching, doing family genealogy, going to garage sales, reading, watching tv shows like Gilmore Girls, Father Brown, and Vera. Most importantly she loved attending all her grandchildren’s events. Above all her family brought her the most enjoyment in life.
Marilyn is survived by her children, Melissa Smith, Michelle (Steve) Hollon, Jennifer (Juan) Mena, and Jason Smith; grandchildren, Benjamin (Karri) Orrison, Adam (Emily) Mena, Elisabeth (Shaun) Berlin, William Bossler, Robert (Hannah) Orrison, Juan (Brieyana) Mena, and Bonifacio Mena; great-grandchildren, Emmalee, Zoey, Henry, Mason, Malachi, and Atticus. She was predeceased by her husband, David; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Marilyn’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to MSU Extension Master Gardner Program. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
