Marilyn Ann Stevens

Marilyn Ann (Ward) Stevens, 88, passed away on October 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born July 22, 1937, in Fremont, Ind., to Eugene Oscar Ward and Helen Mortorff Ward. She was the second of five siblings and was known affectionately throughout her life as “Sis.”

On July 31, 1955, Marilyn married John Wesley Stevens. Together they shared 62 years of devoted marriage filled with hard work, laughter, and deep family bonds. They raised their four children in Tecumseh, Mich., where they lived and worked for many years before later retiring to California. John preceded her in death in 2017.

Marilyn was a 1955 graduate of Reading High School in Reading, Mich., where she played girls basketball and participated in school plays. These early interests made her a lifelong supporter of her children’s and grandchildren’s athletic and theatrical pursuits.

A devoted homemaker, Marilyn was especially known for her prolific vegetable gardens, beautiful flower beds, and love of canning and preserving. Her home was one of abundance, generosity and care. While raising her family, she also built a successful professional career, working for 25 years with General Motors and later EDS (Electronic Data Systems) during the early days of data processing.

Marilyn worked alongside her husband in real estate, helping renovate and manage rental properties long before home renovation became popular. Later in life, she discovered a passion for tennis, beginning at age 39 and playing competitively for decades in women’s leagues in Tecumseh and Adrian. Known by friends as “No Mercy Marilyn,” she was admired for her determination and competitive spirit.

Marilyn is survived by her children; Diana Stevens Aten, Janise Stevens Erickson, Kevin Stevens, and Kathryn Stevens Higgins; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings.

A celebration of life and interment will be held in the spring at Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh, Mich., where she will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family by emailing Diana Stevens Aten at Diana.Aten@yahoo.com.