In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites will be given and no formal services are being planned. Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.

Marilyn was born on March 2, 1937, to parents Floyd and Maurine Nichols. Marilyn grew up in Grinnell, Iowa. December 25, 1952, Marilyn married Herschel Edwards at the Baptist Temple in Marshalltown, and together they lived in Marshalltown.

Marilyn will be missed as a mother, grandma, sister and a friend. Marilyn cared deeply for her family and friends. Marilyn leaves behind many family traditions: Easter egg hunt tradition of filling hundreds of eggs for her grandchildren to find and Christmas baking. We all have been blessed with homemade birthday cakes, frosted sugar cookies and the infamous peanut butter and coconut balls. Marilyn never baked in small batches, she always made more than enough to share. Marilyn and Herschel were known for their large garden in the backyard, which was often a good reason to get family together. Marilyn also enjoyed making homemade clothes for her granddaughters and took pride in picking out the perfect fabric to go with the perfect pattern.

Left to cherish her memory is three sons: James (Gina) Edwards, Richard Edwards and Larry Edwards; her daughter-in-law, Mary Smith; grandchildren: Dustin, Dusty, Tawnya, Rejean, Herschel and Jesse; 14 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren; her siblings: Florence Vancleave, Sandy Tharp, Joan (Chris) Cazier and Dennis (Pat) Nichols.

Marilyn is reunited with her loving husband, Hershel Edwards; her sons: Charles and Terry Edwards; her sisters: Gloria (Bill) Corns and Mary (Melvin) Desbro; her parents, Floyd and Maurine Nichols and brother-in-law, Tom Vancleave.