Marilyn Deloris Jones

Marilyn Deloris Jones, 76, of Morrilton, passed away on September 14, 2025, in Morrilton, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wanda and Chester Jones, and two brothers, Wayne and Travis Jones. Marilyn was born at home on Moose Mountain in Center Ridge on December 3, 1948. The families’ travels took them to many places, but they made Center Ridge their home. Marilyn enjoyed great success throughout her time at Nemo Vista and excelled at every step of her high school career. Marilyn was the first Student Council President from Nemo Vista High School in 1965. Marilyn was Valedictorian of the Nemo Vista Class of 1967. She was also the Homecoming Queen, played basketball, was voted most likely to succeed and most studious, best all around, most courteous, best personality, best athlete, and wittiest. Many years later, she obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism and English from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1986. She was also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi (1986). Marilyn wrote some articles for the Arkansas Democrat Gazette for a short while. She worked on a subcommittee for Governor Bill Clinton regarding Family Violence in 1987. Marilyn had many careers throughout her lifetime, but her favorite by far was being a Real Estate Agent in Tennessee, because she loved to talk to people. Through her life’s journey, her greatest accomplishments were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her three children: Diana DiGiacomo, Denise Smith (Jayson) and Matthew Jalufka (Laurel); nine grandchildren: Phillip DiGiacomo (Caroline), Christopher Smith (Taylor), BreAnna Maudsley, Austin Smith (Michelle), Matthew Jalufka, Dolton Jalufka, Amber DiGiacomo, Hayden Jalufka, and Jarrett Jalufka; and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters: Brenda Bizzell, Lita Jones, Rita Jones, and Jeris Ezell, and sister-in-law Susan Jones. A celebration of life will be held at Harris Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the UAMS Cancer Research Institute, the Epilepsy Foundation of Arkansas, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the American Heart Association. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton.

Marilyn Deloris Jones

December 3, 1948 - September 14, 2025