Marilyn Louise Smith

Marilyn Louise Smith

Marilyn Louise Smith (née Bingham), 78, of Bothell, Washington, passed away on June 25, 2026, due to complications of Parkinson’s disease.

Marilyn was born on December 6, 1947, to Earl and Viola Bingham in Ogden, Utah. She was the youngest of three children, joining her older sister Kathy and her older brother Lloyd. Marilyn had a happy childhood in Montana, where her dad worked at Shell Oil company, and her mom was a school teacher (including being Marilyn’s teacher for two of her school years). When she was in the fifth grade, the family moved west to Burien, Washington, where she lived until graduating from Highland High School.

Marilyn met Andrew Smith at church during her final year at BYU in 1971, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. They were married on August 10, 1971, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Andy often said that he knew within weeks he had found his wife, and the feeling was mutual. He frequently told his children and grandchildren that marrying Marilyn was the best decision he ever made. Over their 50 years together, Andy admired Marilyn’s patience, cooking, devotion, and loving care for their family. Marilyn cherished Andy’s sense of humor, storytelling, dedication to family, and his commitment to providing for them.

Andy and Marilyn shared a love for their children, grandchildren, dogs, and sports—especially the Mariners, Seahawks, and BYU football. After marrying, they lived in Denville, New Jersey, and later in Bellingham, Lynden and Woodinville, Washington. Together, they built a large and close-knit family—what they affectionately called their own “Scottish clan.” This clan began with their five children: Jared, Seth, Allyson, Nicole, and Ian, and also included Andy’s mother, who lived with them for the final 20 years of her life—something Marilyn often credited as invaluable support while raising five young children.

Marilyn’s love for her family was unwavering, and her patience unmatched. Her children always knew she was there to support them—whether cheering them on at gymnastics meets, hockey, baseball, football, volleyball, and soccer games, or encouraging them through life’s challenges. She was always willing to lend a helping hand so they could pursue their goals.
In 2000, Andy and Marilyn retired to Sequim, where they embraced its relaxed lifestyle. Marilyn was a wonderful cook, and each of her children and grandchildren had a favorite dish she made with love. Special occasions were marked by meals like sausage rolls and meat pie, while everyday life was sweetened by her orange rolls, broccoli cheddar soup, brownies, cookies, and more.

Marilyn was also a gifted gardener who knew how to make things grow. Her home was always filled with fresh fruits and vegetables that she lovingly shared with her family. She baked rhubarb pie, made raspberry jam, and dehydrated countless apples for everyone to enjoy.

Marilyn maintained close relationships with both of her siblings throughout her life. She and her brother Lloyd were in constant contact, especially about Seattle and BYU sports. She and her sister Kathy remained close friends, raising children of similar ages and creating lasting memories through frequent family gatherings.

Throughout her life, Marilyn was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Marilyn is survived by her brother and sister; her five children; and her 14 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andy, and her parents.

At the end of Marilyn’s life, she was surrounded by her loving family. Her children and grandchildren visited her often. Her daughters, Nicole Eaton and Allyson Bartholomew, were especially instrumental during this time. As nurses, they provided both the expertise and compassion to care for Marilyn in their homes and, during her final week, in her own home. This allowed her to remain in a familiar place, surrounded by loved ones. Even in her final days, her family felt that Marilyn was happiest hearing the voices and laughter of those she loved nearby.

In lieu of flowers, Marilyn’s family suggests donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, whose mission is to eliminate Parkinson’s disease in our lifetime.

A funeral service will be held on July 1, 2026 at 2:30 PM at 19215 88th Ave NE, Bothell, WA 98011.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.