Marilyn Louise Kimbrell
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our wonderful mom, grandma, great grandma, gammy, and friend. After a short illness, Marilyn Louise Kimbrell nee King passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on May 28, 2024. Born in Wichita, Kansas on September 10, 1935, she grew up on a dirt farm with no running water in her early years, with her father Gurney Duard King, mother Roxie Hamilton King, and brother Gary. She was always industrious working while attending school and active in sports, playing basketball, until her graduation from Winfield High School. Following her marriage to Grady Ned Kimbrell, she moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1958 where she raised her son and daughter. Although the marriage ended, Marilyn and Grady remained close friends.
With a strong business acumen, attention to detail, and keen interest in business, Marilyn built a successful career as an escrow officer. She loved to close the deal and was proud to help people complete the purchase of their homes, often for the first time. She made many lifelong friends and business partnerships during her many years in the real estate business. In her free time, she crafted, focused on home décor, and sewed her own clothes. She was avid “fashionista” skilled at designing and modifying patterns to create many of her one of a kind looks. Marilyn never missed a Fiesta or the opportunity to stroll along Cabrillo beach during the arts and craft show or visit other local arts and craft festivals. She enjoyed her favorite meal, breakfast, out with family and friends regularly. She volunteered her time helping others at Valle Verde, the former Goleta Valley Community Hospital, and the MS Society.
Marilyn loved traveling the world, early on accompanying her mother Roxie on excursions. A visit abroad with her daughter to Great Britain and Europe kicked off her desire to explore more far-reaching countries and exotic destinations. She and her son Marck shared and lived life by her motto to always “pick more daisies”.
She confided that she had two great loves in her life. She was always happy and smiling and a positive, supportive presence in the lives of those she loved. She is survived by her brother Gary King, daughter Joni Lynne Kimbrell, son Mark LeRoy Kimbrell, grandchildren Elana and Joshua Kimbrell, and five great granddaughters. She was gammy and loved by her grand pets. We will all miss her tremendously and are so grateful to have her in our lives.
She specified a private gathering to celebrate her life at which “no mourning” will be allowed. Donations in her name may be made to VNA Hospice and to Cottage Hospital.