Marilyn Jane (Lillard) Stark

Marilyn Jane (Lillard) Stark, 80, of Old Hickory, TN, passed away, surrounded by family, on February 24, 2023.

Marilyn was born on June 23, 1942 to WWII hero Randall E. Lillard and Laberta (Graf) Lillard in Covington, Kentucky. She is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, John Stark; her three children, Sara Vallandingham (Dave Vallandingham), Jonathan Stark, and Dr. David Stark; her twin sister, Carolyn Marsh; her brother and sister-in-law, Ralph and Doris Lillard; her loving aunt, Jean Jones; granddaughter, Maria Peckinpaugh; grandson, Drew Vallandingham, and a long and loving list of extended family members and dear friends.

A graduate of Ludlow High School (1960), Trevecca Nazarene University (1964), and Middle Tennessee State University (1966, Master of Arts in Education), Marilyn was an elementary school teacher and educational program director at Nashville First Church of the Nazarene. She was also a member of the JESUS Film/Harvest Partners board for many years. 

A skilled pianist, an expert conversationalist, a lover of gardens and birds, and a prolific writer of greeting cards, Marilyn possessed an especially welcoming and hospitable spirit which she freely shared with all. She demonstrated “Christlikeness” in her kindness, warmth, and concern for the well-being of others. She was, in the words of St. Francis, an “instrument of peace”. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 11, 2023 at 2PM at Nashville First Church of the Nazarene (510 Woodland St. Nashville, TN 37206). The family will be receiving visitors from 12-2PM prior to the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to “JESUS Film/Harvest Partners” (15055 West 116th St. Olathe, KS 66062).

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.