Marilyn Louise (Selander) Stephens, cherished Mother, grandmother, and friend, passed
away peacefully of natural causes in her home on June 14, 2025, in Puyallup, WA, at the
age of ninety-two. Though her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her, Marilyn's legacy of
warmth, wit, a very funny sense of humor and resilience continues to inspire those she leaves behind.

Born on November 30, 1932, in Tacoma, WA, Marilyn was the only beloved daughter of
Edward and Marion Selander. She leaves behind her deceased husband, Billy Joe Stephens.

Marilyn is survived by her three children: Leslie Roberts Stephens (Russ Roberts),
Joel Stephens (Tammy Stephens), Jennifer Hansen (Marc Hansen); six grandchildren: Jenna Stephens,
Jaime Stephens, Nolan Hansen, Ryan Schwan (Maggie Anna),
Crystal Sipes (Dustin Sipes) and Taylor Ginithan. Eleven great-grandchildren, Ethan Stephens,
Chloe, Clair, Ryder McGee, Jaxon Stephens, Lyle, Maggie, Oden Sipes, Liana, Liam, and Rylee Schwan.

Marilyn grew up in Tacoma, WA. She attended Stewart Jr. High and Lincoln High School. She
attended UPS College and was a member of the sorority Sister – Alpha Delta Pi. She was an
incredibly talented tailor making many of her own clothes and coats.

She soon married Billy Joe Stephens, a marriage that lasted 44 years prior to Billy Joe's death.

They built their home in Tacoma, WA, and raised three children. She was a member of the
Waller Road Grange and built many long-lasting friendships throughout the community.

She worked for Franklin Pierce School District special education department.

She was a secretary for the Psychology Dept. and loved her job and made lifelong
friendships. Marilyn and Bill traveled throughout Europe and many countries and stayed
with friends and family members.

Marilyn was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church and played the piano for Sunday
Schoolchildren.

Marilyn and Billy Joe researched their genealogy on both sides throughout Texas and
Wisconsin. It took them months of research, something Marilyn loved doing along with
continuing reading and learning new things. Marilyn loved her family and loved telling
stories about the extraordinary life she led. We will miss our Momma deeply and will
cherish her, her ways, and love.

Gravesite services will be held July 26th at 11:00 am at Tacoma Cemetery, 4801 So Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409.

Please join us; following the graveside service, there will be a Celebration lunch at the home of
Jennifer and Marc Hansen, 4001 Military Rd E, Tacoma, WA 98446