Marilyn "Bo" Coulson McCool

Born on December 4, 1936, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Ned and Thelma Beaudreau, Marilyn spent her early years with her parents and brother, Vance. A bright and lively spirit, she was crowned Homecoming Queen during her high school years.

Marilyn began her higher education at Southern Methodist University. A pivotal chapter unfolded in 1960 when she moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to live with her Uncle Henry, Aunt Evelyn, and cousin Flicka Rahn. It was there she completed her college degree at the University of Pittsburgh and taught at Mount Lebanon high school. She cherished the Rahns as a second family and had the full support of Henry in pursuing her dreams and charting a new course in life.

During her time in Pittsburgh, while working at Children's Hospital, Marilyn noticed a handsome, single doctor, Dave Coulson. After meeting in an elevator, their connection quickly blossomed. Six months later, they were married. Not long after, they welcomed their son, Andrew, followed by their daughter, Stephanie, completing their loving family.

In 1978, the Coulson family relocated to Austin, Texas, where they put down lasting roots. Marilyn (Bo) became a vibrant part of the community, participating in the Lost Creek Garden Club and attending St. David's Episcopal Church, where she, Dave and devoted friends of faith formed the "Middle Marrieds" group. Marilyn was also a faithful member of the Order of St. Luke and found joy in serving her church community. Her kindness, adventurous spirit, and dedication to family will be remembered by all who knew her.

After Dave’s passing in 1995, Bo found love again with Jack McCool, whom she married in 2000. Their whirlwind romance brought joy and companionship for 24 beautiful years. Together, they hosted a Bible study group in their home and shared a deep faith in God and love for life. Bo and Jack were active members of the Austin Disaster Relief Network, where they counseled and prayed with those affected by tragedies such as the Bastrop Fires. They also helped guide Oklahoma in forming a similar faith-based relief network.

Bo was a creative soul, always dreaming up imaginative activities for her children and filling their home with love, laughter, and projects. Her fondness for animals, a passion passed on to her children, meant that cats and dogs were part of her family for most of her life.

An avid traveler, Bo explored the world with a deep curiosity and an open heart, often bringing back not only memories, but seeds and clippings of tropical plants to cultivate in her lush gardens. Notably, the family accompanied Dave on volunteer trips to Brazil and Tunisia, where he shared his medical expertise, and she immersed herself in the local cultures. She continued to explore the world with Jack for as long as she was physically able.

Bo is survived by her devoted husband, Jack; her children, Andrew (and his wife, Cherie) and Stephanie; cousins, Flicka and Russel; and a cherished extended family of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

Her life was a testament to love, faith, and the joy of embracing every moment. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Funeral service will be held at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home, located at 2620 S. Congress Avenue, in Austin, Texas. at 12:00 p.m. Viewing from 10:00 to 12:00. The service will be followed by a burial ceremony at Austin Memorial Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to a reception afterward.