Mrs. Marilyn Holder

Marilyn Jean Walton Holder was born July 4, 1952, in Hearne, Texas, to Ethel and Paul Walton. Her mother often called her only daughter “Mae-Jean” as a term of endearment. Marilyn accepted Christ at an early age at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church under the Leadership of the late Pastor Smith. She continued to grow in her personal relationship with Christ as the years progressed.

Marilyn was educated through the Blackshear School System in Hearne, Texas, graduating with the class of 1969. In her young adult years, she loved a good party, card games, Blues concerts, and spending time with family and friends – but most importantly, she cherished her relationship with God. 

Marilyn stepped into Motherhood at an early and gave birth to her one and only darling daughter, Nichelle, whom she named after actress Nichelle Nicholas, whom she adored from Star Trek. Marilyn’s love for children extended far beyond her biological child. She had a special gift for nurturing, and through that gift, she cared for numerous babies and children while living in Hearne, Texas. “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.” -Hebrews 6:10 

As a result of those relationships, the children she cared for affectionately called her “NaNa.” Among all of these bonds, one of the deepest was with her beloved grandson, Blake. He was her “Pride and Joy,” bringing immeasurable love into her heart. The two spent countless summers together, and she lovingly watched him grow into a young man. They always looked forward to their special time together. 

After the passing of Marilyn’s mother and as her own health needs changed, Marilyn relocated to Missouri City to be closer to her daughter and grandson. During that time, she united with the Jerusalem Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of her son-in-love, Castro L. Walker Sr. Nichelle became her mother’s devoted guardian, caregiver and sometimes enforcer – especially when it came to her meal plans. Marilyn insisted on bringing her country roots with her when it came to satisfying her taste buds. She tried to get her cousin Hazel to “smuggle” pig ears to her and even attempted to “recruit” her hairstylist, Keyanna Alexander, to sneak her banana nut bread -both things she knew she shouldn’t have. But anytime someone mention Nichelle’s name, she would immediately say, “never mind”…lol. 

Nevertheless, Nichelle ensured her mother’s comfort at every turn, right up until Marilyn transitioned. Nichelle tenderly accompanied her mother through her final season in life, including right by her side as she took her last earthly breath. “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” - Revelation 21:4.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her mother, Ethel Long; her grandparents, Roy Thomas, Maurine Thomas, Quincy Williams; a special loved one, Charles Miles; and her favorite cousin, Darrell Ray Grear. 

She leaves to cherish her memory; her father, Paul Walton (Frances); her daughter, Nichelle Walton Walker (Castro), her beloved grandson, Blake Walton; her aunt, Ruby Thomas Maxwell; her son-cousin, Toby Thomas; her cousins, Jasmine Maxwell Parker (Steven) and Maurice Maxwell; bonus daughter, Michelle Rice (Reggie); special bonus grandsons, Cedric Davis (Olivia), Jordan Alexander, and Braylon Alexander; and one bonus son, Weldon Monroe (Amanda). She also leaves behind her very special (brother) cousin, Dell Wayne Grismore, and two special cousins who were like second mothers, Vivian Webb Porter and Margaret Webb White, both of Oakland, California; as well as her best friend, Precious Workman; along with a host of other cousins and dear friends. 

Marilyn’s legacy of love and selfless service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.  She touched countless lives and leaves behind a family and community forever grateful
for her unwavering love and support.

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