Marilyn Lyon Ilhardt, (70), originally of Miami, FL, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 3, 2021 in the afternoon with family members by her side in Asheville, NC.

Marilyn was born July 13, 1950 in Miami to the late Neil "David" and Margaret Lyon. Marilyn met her future husband, Ronald "Ron" Ilhardt, at the tender age of 15 and they have been together ever since that day. Marilyn graduated from Miami Senior High, Class of '68, and wed Ron on August 16, 1969. Marilyn worked in Miami until 2012 and once Marilyn and Ron retired, they began to spend more of their time in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. In 2017, they made Franklin, NC their permanent home.

Marilyn is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Ron; her brother Stephen (Nancy) Lyon, her sister Barbara (Andrew) Clute, her daughter Kelli (Chris) Wise, her son Kyle (Renee) Ilhardt, grandchildren Tyler, Brooke, Kylie, Austin, Karson, and Klayton, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was the most caring, loving, and kind woman. There is not a single person who could say anything negative about her – she was a phenomenal daughter, sister, wife, mother, "Mimi," aunt, and friend. All of our lives are better because of Marilyn. She was loved by many and will be cherished forever. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service to begin with a viewing at 11:00 am, March 13 at Macon Funeral Home. The service will begin at 12:00 pm Macon Funeral Home and the burial will immediately follow at Iotla Baptist Church Cemetery. A celebration of Marilyn's wonderful life will follow at The Lodge at Cat Creek.

Rev. Steve Reeves will officiate.

Due to COVID-19 The family asks that masks are worn and social distance guidelines are followed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Miami Police Veteran's Association College Scholarship Fund.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com