Marilyn Ann smith was born on December 29, 1945 in Lubbock, Texas to Leslie and Mary Estep and passed away on June 9, 2021 in Hobbs, New Mexico. Marilyn attended Tatum Schools until her junior year of high school when she met and married Meredith Smith with written permission from her mother who agreed if she would continue to pursue her education. Marilyn followed her mother's advice and graduated high school via a correspondence school. After raising her children, she then completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from College of the Southwest. Upon graduation she was hire by the Lovington Schools as a high school English teacher. After teaching for a few years, she continued her education at ENMU and received a Master of Science Degree in School counseling. She continued to work for Lovington Schools in a dual role as teacher/counselor until 1985 when her family moved to Las Cruces to allow her to pursue a Doctorate Degree in Criminal Justice. As a graduate assistant at NMSU she taught various courses in the education department. Upon her graduation the family moved back to Hobbs where she was employed at College of the Southwest for twenty-five years. She held many positions at CSW including Dean of the Education Department, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Educational Psychology Professor. Marilyn was an avid bridge player and enjoyed playing in both of the bridge groups she belonged to. Her dream was to become a professional bridge player and go on cruises geared toward playing bridge. Preceding her in death were her parents and a sister. Surviving her is her husband, Meredith, so, Michael, daughter, Laurie and grandson, Brandon and Alex Smith and family. She is also survived by her fur babies: Macho, Missy and Princess. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to the Lea county Humane society. The family would also like to thank the staff at Kindred Hospice for the loving care they provided. A private graveside service for the family only, will be held at a later date at the Lovington Cemetery. Marilyn's services have been entrusted to Kirby-Ratliff Funeral Home in Lovington, NM. Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com.