Marilyn Colson Obituary

Marilyn Joyce Thomas Colson, 92, of Blackfoot, Idaho, passed away on July 7, 2025-just weeks after the passing of her beloved husband, Robert Farrel Colson. After 73 years of marriage and a lifetime of companionship, we will celebrate their lives in a shared service.

Born on February 22, 1933, in Malad, Idaho, Marilyn was the first child of Kahlil Robert and Mable Louise Daniels Thomas. She was especially close to her sister, Beverlee Gaye, who passed away at nine years old, and to her brothers, Kelly and Danel, with whom she maintained strong lifelong bonds.

Her early childhood was spent in Malad and later in Pocatello, where she attended Washington Elementary, Franklin Middle School, and Pocatello High School, graduating in 1951. During high school, she and her four best friends ran the Crest Theatre. It was there, at the Crest Theatre, that she met the "love of her life", Bob Colson. They married on January 5, 1952, and together they built a beautiful life and family. They welcomed their first son, Robert Griff, on January 23, 1953; their second son, James Dee, on January 1, 1956; and their cherished daughter, Robin Ileen, on August 8, 1961. Marilyn's children and grandchildren were always her priority and her greatest joy. She devoted her life to loving and supporting them.

Marilyn held several jobs in her early years, including at the Crest Theatre and Idaho Bank and Trust, but found her true professional calling at Blackfoot High School, where she worked as the bookkeeper and bursar from 1967 until her retirement in 1996. She cherished every moment of her 29 years working at the high school where she developed lifelong friendships with her coworkers and she especially enjoyed the bonds she was able to form with students. She was always rooting for the underdog and never missed an opportunity to help someone when they were down.

In addition to her professional work, Marilyn was a devoted community volunteer. She took on leadership roles in organizations such as Boy Scouts, 4-H, BHS Bronco Boosters, the Drill Team, and the Rodeo Club. She was a proud member of the National Education Association (NEA) and a lifetime member of the Soroptimists. Even in retirement, she remained active in the community, especially when it came to creating better opportunities for children and those in need. One of her proudest contributions was helping to plan and develop the Blackfoot Skate Park.

She loved anything that involved family-boating, snowmobiling, and especially time spent at the family cabin near Palisades Reservoir. She and Bob created lasting memories there with their children and grandchildren. They traveled often to visit their children and grandchildren wherever they lived, strengthening bonds across generations.

Marilyn had a creative spirit and enjoyed collecting antiques. She had passion for art, especially painting watercolors. At her home on Riverton Road she loved to stand in her sunroom and paint for hours on end. Her home and cabin were graced with the beautiful art that she created. Marilyn's artistic flair extended beyond her hobbies and into her personal style. She had a fondness for colorful scarves to brighten an outfit, cute hats that added a touch of charm, and bold costume jewelry that reflected her vibrant spirit.

Marilyn was a caring and loving Mother, Grandmother, and Friend whose warmth, kindness and steady support touched the lives of all who knew her. She lived a life grounded in faith, guided by hope, and lifted by a deep and abiding spirituality. Her gentle spirit and unwavering belief in God's love were a source of strength and inspiration to all of those around her. A devoted member of the Church of Christ, Scientist, she also found community at Jason Lee United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her children: Griff (Diane) Colson, James (Gina) Colson, and Robin (Terry) Griggs; her brother Danel Thomas; ten grandchildren-Carrie (Seth) Cole, Cleve (Brooke) Colson, Cole (Neasha) Colson, Clinton (Ashley) Colson, Mandi (Matt) Beard, Robby (Danielle Ahlstrom) Colson, Tony (Laura) Colson, Angie Colson, Dillon Griggs (Ale), and Cody Griggs-and fifteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her parents; her sister Beverlee Gaye; her brother Kelly; and her in-laws Frank and Alice Colson.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to those who provided Marilyn with such compassionate care, both at home and at the Gables Assisted Living Center. Special appreciation goes to her Gables nurses, Jo and Starr; her physician, Dr. Joy Taylor; and her physical therapist, Tyler Mecham. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and support she received during her final months.

We will celebrate the lives of Robert Farrel Colson and Marilyn Joyce Thomas Colson in a shared service, honoring their individual journeys as well as the life and family they created together and the beautiful legacy they leave behind.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Hawker Funeral Home. The family will greet friends and loved ones one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service at Jason Lee Memorial United Methodist Church.

In accordance with Marilyn's wishes, cremation will take place, and their ashes will be interred together at a later date in a private family ceremony.