Marilyn J. Wilson-Larson, 86, of Knoxville, passed away on December 6, 2025, at Knox County Nursing Home after a short illness.
She was born on January 22, 1939, the daughter of Paul E. and Nora C. (Blixt) Wilson. A lifelong resident of the Wilson family farm, she cherished country living and continued mowing and tending her gardens until just two years ago. She was the beloved twin sister of Carolyn J. Wilson-Miller.
A 1957 graduate of Knoxville High School, Marilyn worked for 35 years as the administrative assistant to the superintendent of the Knoxville School District #202. Earlier in her career, she was employed by First Farmers National Bank of Knoxville.
She married Theodore E. “Ted” Larson on September 19, 2009. He preceded her in death on December 30, 2021.
Also preceding her in death were her parents; brothers Donald P. Wilson and Thomas E. Wilson; brother-in-law Robert Miller; niece Felicia Wilson; and nephew Mark P. Wilson.
Surviving are her twin sister, Carolyn J. Miller of Knoxville; nephew Matthew (Kim) Wilson of Baldwin, New York; niece Kimberly Wilson of Ditmar, Missouri; her stepchildren; and several loving nieces and nephews.
Marilyn will be remembered for her bright spirit, radiant smile, contagious laugh, and warm, comforting hugs. She was a dedicated supporter of her community and could often be found attending Knoxville High School athletic, musical, and theater events. She was also a familiar face at the Knox-Galesburg Symphony, Choral Dynamics, Nova Singers, the Knox County Scenic Drive, and the Rootabaga Jazz Festival. Marilyn was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Knoxville.
A private family graveside service, officiated by Vicar Nathaniel Knutson of Grace Lutheran Church, will be held. A Celebration of Life will follow in the spring. Arrangements are being handled by Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home of Knoxville.