Marilyn L. Jackson, 86, of Stanwood, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Clarence Senior Living.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 23 at Stanwood Union Church. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Pastor Ron Lashmit and Pastor Theodora Okinewood. Burial will follow at Stanwood Cemetery.

Born on June 28, 1940, in Clarion, Iowa, Marilyn was the daughter of Charles "Chub" and Frances (Bloomfield) Hanson. She graduated from Clarion High School in 1958 and earned her degree from Upper Iowa University in 1963. On February 10, 1963, she married the love of her life, Doug Jackson. They shared many happy years together until his passing on August 5, 1997.

Teaching was more than a profession to Marilyn—it was her calling. She began her career in Bennett in 1963 before teaching in the Lowden and Lincoln Community School Districts. Later, she co-owned and taught at Peter Pan Preschool in Stanwood for 17 years. She continued sharing her love of learning as a substitute teacher for the Lincoln and North Cedar School Districts, touching the lives of countless students over the years.

A devoted member of Stanwood Union Church, Marilyn found joy in singing in the choir and living out her faith through service. She also shared her love of music as part of a women's quartet, The Quadratones. This group performed throughout the community and were proud to have recorded their own record album. Marilyn was a longtime member of the Iowa Federated Women's Club for more than 40 years, served on the Stanwood Library Board for 17 years, and was an active member of the Friends of the Library since its founding in 1997. She also led the library's adult book group, volunteered for many years with "Daffodil Days," and generously gave her time to numerous community organizations.

Marilyn treasured Thursday morning breakfasts with friends at Ditto's, where laughter and conversation were always plentiful. Family was the center of her life. She rarely missed a sporting event, school program, or activity involving her children and grandchildren. Whether cheering from the stands, serving as a Den Mother, teaching Sunday School, or simply spending time together, she found her greatest happiness in supporting those she loved.

She is survived by her sons, Scott (Dee) of Stanwood, Tom (Rhonda) of Cedar Rapids, and Ron (Amy) of Mount Vernon; grandchildren Kori (Brennen Chipp), Kyle (Addie), Taylor, Lydia, Nolan, and Eryn; great-grandchildren Andi and Adi; sisters-in-law Sandy (Bob) Nessler of Colorado and Marge (Ray) Sheets of Goldfield, Iowa; brother-in-law Terry (Linda) Jackson of Clarion; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Doug; her parents; her sister, Sandra Schipull; and her granddaughter, Sydney Jackson.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Clarence Senior Living for the exceptional care and kindness they provided during her final years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Scott Jackson, 314 Sunset Drive, Stanwood, IA 52337.