Marilyn Smith Brannon shed the confines of her earthly body Friday, Oct. 22, 2021. She was born July 20, 1942, to Joseph L. and Josephine E. Smith in Delta, Utah. Marilyn married Howard Durrant in 1960, later divorced. After many years, married her longtime soulmate Ronnie Brannon in 1993.
The most important thing in Marilyn’s life was family. She loved them unconditionally and cherished them all. She held her memories in the form of photos displayed all over the house. Her daughter Valerie Purvis (Jesse), and her son Melvin Durrant were her treasures, and they will miss her dearly. Others who will cherish her memory are stepdaughters Pam Medina (Ken), Karen Hytrek (Mike); grandchildren Jesse Ryan and Kathryn Purvis, Maggie and Molly Durrant, Megan (Cesar) Borromeo, Jenna Medina, Sydney Medina, Nicholas (Aimee) Hytrek, Kiana Hytrek, and Kelly Hytrek; and her great-grandchildren Raiden and Ariabella. She was also loved by her brothers Dennis (June) Smith, and Ron (Carol) Smith; sister-in-law Elaine (David) Smith; and many adoring nieces and nephews. Marilyn was preceded in death by her mother, father, and brother David.
A private celebration of life was held Oct. 23, 2021. Her wish is to be cremated and ashes disbursed in Astoria, Oregon, at a future date.
The family would like to thank the care teams in both Tooele and University of Utah ICU departments, the U. of U. care staff in the AIM-A ward, as well as CNS hospice for their care and concern, not only for Marilyn but the family as well. Additional thank you to the Grantsville 7th Ward Bishop Chad Johnson and Elder Bill Yauney for administering the family blessing and the 7th Ward Relief Society for their wonderful contributions of time and food. A most special thank you goes to Van Hardison and his granddaughter Kiya for always looking after Mom and Dad and their continued assistance in the care and maintenance of the people and home we love.