Marilyn (Sparks) Harrington passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, at the age of 93.

She was born February 11, 1932, in Atwood, Oklahoma, to Velta and Maude Sparks as the third of seven children. From a young age, Marilyn was remembered for her social nature and her beautiful singing voice. As a young girl, she was often asked to sing at funerals for WWII veterans.

Marilyn was actively involved at Atwood High School in a variety of ways, including basketball (forward), softball (pitcher), The Lariat school newspaper (art editor), and numerous school plays. Not only was Marilyn outgoing, she was also quick-witted and bright, graduating as salutatorian of the Class of 1950.

After high school, Marilyn worked for the Holdenville Newspaper as the "Society" editor. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, L.O. Harrington. Though she once jokingly told her mother that she "wouldn't marry him if he was the last man on earth," Marilyn soon fell for L.O.'s charisma, and the two were married just six months later on March 7, 1953. They made their home in the Moore and southwest Oklahoma City area, where they would spend the rest of their married life together.

Marilyn was a homemaker and loving mother to her three children. She and L.O. were active church members at Oakcrest Church of Christ and loved opening their home to others, hosting many gatherings through the years, including cherished Christmas Eve and New Year's parties. Marilyn served for many years with the Oklahoma Christian College Women's Association (OCCWA), including a term as Devotional Officer, helping provide college scholarships and support.

She was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi (named Pledge of the Year in 1972), participated in the Silver Linings ladies singing group, the Okie Bowlers League, and taught Bible and children's classes at Blackwelder Church of Christ and Southern Oaks Church of Christ. Marilyn traveled with L.O. on mission work to Portugal, Scotland, Massachusetts, and New York. Her hobbies included writing poetry and songs, including her published gospel hymn "God's Heavenly Height" (1966), RV road trips with family & friends, as well as watching OU football and Thunder basketball.

Marilyn could quote scripture like the back of her hand. She deeply loved God and loved people - but was never stuffy - she laughed easily, cried freely, and cared genuinely. Vivacious, generous, and thoughtful, Marilyn was well-liked by all who knew her. She never missed a baby shower or a funeral, always showing up for others.

Preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, her parents, and siblings: Ted Sparks, J.C. Sparks, and Donna Kay Sparks.

She is survived by daughter Debbie Kraft (Gene) of Richmond, Virginia, son Steve Harrington (Sharon) of Moore, Oklahoma, son Mark Harrington (Shari) of Arlington, Texas. She loved her many grandchildren: Nathan (Stephanie) Harrington, Stefanie (Eric) Williams, Sarah (Mason) Earp, Madeline Harrington, Allison Harrington and her great-grandchildren: Dakota (Kasey) Harrington, Ashton Harrington, Aadyn Harrington, Fisher Williams, Spencer Williams, and Eloise Earp. She is survived by 3 siblings: Merle (Wilkie, d.) Wilkinson, Jo Ella (Larry) Goddard, and Kenny (Gayle) Sparks.

Marilyn lived a full and faithful life, and her memory will be a blessing to those who knew her.