She attended Furman University and Anderson College majoring in music. She had successful careers in business, commercial real estate, human resources, and diabetes counseling in Atlanta, Charlotte, Austin TX and Greenville SC.
Her volunteer work included serving with The Atlanta Diabetes Association, Auxiliary for the Retarded in Charlotte and Goodwill Industries in Greenville.
Marilyn's musical career included tours with the Debutones as well as singing with several Big Bands such as the Clemson University Jungaleers, the Dixie Keys, and others.
She is survived by her husband James (Jim) Sams, her son Curtis Pretty of Charlotte, brother Terry (Mary) Cochran of Memphis TN, and nephews Joshua (Christine) and Jonathan (Ashley) Cochran, as well as Jim's extended family to whom she was devoted.
A memorial service will be held at Covenant Church, 1310 Old Spartanburg Road, Greer SC 29650, at 1:00 p.m. on March 25, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Covenant Church, or the charity of one's choice.