Marilyn Jeanette (Allen) Bryan

Marilyn J. Bryan was born March 26, 1935. Marilyn passed peacefully into eternal life in the loving arms of her eldest son on Nov. 13, 2024, at her home in Pendleton. 

Marilyn was adopted by Cecil F. Allen and Mildred Allen at an early age in Oklahoma City, Ok. Marilyn attended Putnam City Highschool in Oklahoma City where she graduated. Later in life, she attended Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, Ok. She graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing and Associate Degree in Secondary Education. During her time in college, Marilyn also became a certified high school football referee. Sport was one of Marilyn passions. 

Marilyn worked in varying hospitals throughout  nursing career. She held nursing positions of Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, and House Supervisor. Marilyn worked at the old St. Anthony Hospital for more than 30 years. Marilyn retired from Nursing at age 65. While working as an RN and after retirement, Marilyn worked at Armchair Books in Pendleton. Marilyn continued to work at the bookstore until her health declined that prevented her from being on her feet for prolonged periods of time. Marilyn's knowledge of books and authors amazed everyone who came into the bookstore. Marilyn read 2-3 books per week. She loved English Murder Mysteries and Historical Non-Fiction. Marilyn read until the day she passed. Marilyn always donated her slightly used books to the Pendleton Library. 

Marilyn volunteered to help take tickets for the Pendleton High School Football games. Marilyn was named one of Buckaroo Boosters of the Year  in 2010. Marilyn was an avid sports fan. She was extremely knowledgeable across the spectrum of professional and amateur sports. Marilyn's favorite professional football teams were, Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

Marilyn raised seven children: Debe, Michael, Melissa, Becki, Lauri, Pete, and Summer. Five of her children became RN’s. She also has several grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

One of Marilyn’s greatest qualities was being the “Champion of the Underdog.” Marilyn was quick to recognize those who are marginalized, disenfranchised, and the “misfits of the world. If you had injustice in your life, Marilyn would do her best to turn that around. Marilyn would do what was necessary protect and support those less fortunate. 

During her life, Marilyn, lived and worked, on several Indian Reservations: Pawnee, Choctaw, Navaho, Tlingit, Nez Perce, and Umatilla.   Marilyn loved the Indian Culture. She participated in many Pow Wows and Indian Dances throughout her life. Marilyn was readily accepted into any Tribe who lived near her location. It was known by her family and friends that Marilyn did have one regret in her life. This was that she was not born an Indian. 

Marilyn is and always will be fondly kept in the memories of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and friends. Her memory will be a blessing to all that knew her. 

The family would like to thank Dr. John Hitzman, who was her primary doctor for years and the family would also like to thank Dr. Dan Marier who provided care for her during the last years of her life. 

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Mike who provided spiritual care for Marilyn. Fr. Mike was a great comfort to her. Our family would also like to thank Terry Dallas, owner/manager of Armchair Books. For her kindness and friendship throughout the years. 

A Rosary will be held on Tuesday Nov. 19, 2024, at 4:00pm at Burns Mortuary in Pendleton.  A viewing will be held following the Rosery until 6:00pm.  A mass will be held Wednesday Nov. 20 at 9:00am at St. Andrews Mission. Burial will follow at the new section of St. Andrews Mission cemetery. 

The family has requested no reception after the burial. Family and friends may spend a quiet day of reflection. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to St. Andrew Mission. This was her church home for more than 30 years.