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Marilyn McLain Hedgepeth

Marilyn McLain Hedgepeth, of Monticello, died June 19, 2021, at King’s Daughters Medical Center in Brookhaven. Marilyn radiated beauty inside and out through her music, smile, laughter, deep reservoir of faith, and love of sharing joy with others. She was a person of inner strength, always looking to the future through the resurrection hope of Christ.
She was born in Morton on Aug. 26, 1936, to the late Earl Howard Walker and the late Mary Sessums Walker. She earned a Bachelor of Music Education from University of Southern Mississippi. She was employed by Lawrence County School District as a music teacher.
In addition to teaching, Marilyn also joined her husband, Paul King McLain Jr., in community development efforts to recruit businesses and families to make Monticello and Lawrence County their home. She enjoyed hosting many gatherings in her home and always loved bringing people together.
Marilyn’s commitment to her community spanned over 65 years. She served as pianist and organist of Monticello Baptist Church for over 60 years. She also served in many clubs including past president, Twentieth Century Club; Gideon’s International Ladies Auxiliary; den leader, Cub Scout Pack 126; Keeping in Touch (KIT) Club, and Senior Adult Ministry of Monticello Baptist Church; as well as the Retired Teachers Association. She also taught private piano lessons from her home.
She was preceded in death by husbands, Paul King McLain Jr. and Lamar Hedgepeth; and her parents.
Marilyn is survived by her sons, The Reverend Paul King McLain III (Ruthie), Douglas Walker McLain, and Daniel Earl McLain; daughter, Mary Frances McLain Boyd (Chris); sister, Margaret Walker Stormo (Don); three grandchildren, Alex Christopher McLain, McLain Christopher Boyd, and Mary Elizabeth Boyd. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Ronnie Hedgepeth (Linda), Danny Hedgepeth (Lora), and Jackie Williamson (Steve); step-grandchildren and a step-great-grandchild.
A celebration of life and music service was offered on June 22 at Monticello Baptist Church. Worshipful music filled the sanctuary as many of Marilyn’s favorite piano and organ arrangements were masterfully performed by Steve Russell, along with beautiful solos sung by Charlotte Ready. The Reverends Jon Daniels and Sam Taylor officiated. Interment followed in Monticello Municipal Cemetery.
Gifts in her memory may be given to Monticello Baptist Church Music Ministry, P.O. Box 814, Monticello, MS 39654.