Marilynn Dodd

Marilynn La Shell Dodd, affectionately known as “Mal” to her family and friends, passed away on February 6, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on August 28, 1960, in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Marilynn was the beloved daughter of Mae Belle (Stanton) and Willie Edward Dodd. The youngest of thirteen siblings, she was deeply cherished by her family and community.

She is survived by her siblings Annette Clark, Willie Dodd Jr., Patricia Ballard,  Mae Oatha Gardner, Mary Helen Beckley, John Dodd, Lynda Beamon, Vivian Gregory, Kitty Bingham and Roslyn L Dodd (sister/niece). 

She was preceded in death by her dear parents and siblings Willie Mae Dodd, Minnie Nelson, and Arby Dean Dodd, as well as her beloved nieces and nephew, Opal Beamon, Teerah Beamon, and Lawrence Dodd.

Marilynn also leaves behind a host of surviving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marilynn La Shell Dodd was born and raised in Tutwiler, Mississippi, a town rich in Black history and celebrated as the “birthplace of the blues.” From a young age, Marilynn demonstrated remarkable athleticism, determination, and a strong sense of independence. Her protective nature, particularly toward her loved ones, nurtured deep, lasting bonds that remained throughout her life.

Beyond her beauty and athletic talent, Marilynn was exceptionally intelligent. She was offered a full college basketball scholarship from the University of Alabama but ultimately chose to pursue her education, earning an accounting degree from the University of Mississippi. At a time before the WNBA existed, she understood that a career in accounting would provide long-term stability and opportunity.

After college, Marilynn moved to Dallas, Texas, where she built a successful career with the Internal Revenue Service as a Certified Public Accountant. She dedicated 37 years to her profession before retiring.

Marilynn had a deep love for sports, shopping, travel, and good food, but above all, she treasured her Christian faith. She lived her beliefs through action, demonstrating that faith and love are not just words but ways of being. Always positive and impeccably dressed, she carried herself with grace even during her final months, proving that chemotherapy never looked so good.

She cultivated deep and meaningful relationships with her family, taking the time to truly know her many nieces and nephews, guiding and supporting them as they grew. Marilynn was a warm, vibrant presence—gregarious, generous, and caring. She formed lasting friendships throughout the years, each one reflecting her kindness and unwavering support.

Everyone who knew Marilynn had their own unique connection with her, but one thing remained true for all—she was always there for those who needed her. Her presence, her love, and her spirit will be deeply missed.

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