Marilyn D Bennett Lloyd

In Loving Memory of Marilyn D Bennett Lloyd

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Marilyn D Bennett Lloyd. After a brave battle with leukemia, Marilyn passed away on October 6, 2026. Surrounded by the love of her children, she moved to her final home in heaven.

Marilyn leaves behind her four children: Stephen Lloyd; Susan Ballentine (John); Stuart Lloyd, Sr. (Penney); and Sherrill Clarkson (Hal); and her ten grandchildren: Daphne Branham, Josh Ballentine, Stuart Brian Lloyd, Jr., William Lloyd, Robert Lloyd, Justin Clarkson, Ryan Clarkson, Kristen Shumpert, Allison Hallman, and Lauren Phifer. She is also survived by fifteen great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was born in Sheridan, Michigan, to the late Robert F. and Alice Tenny Bennett. As the daughter of a Methodist minister, her early years were marked by dynamic change as her family traveled across many cities where her father served. Throughout these journeys, Marilyn was a devoted eldest sister to Dorothy B. Jensen (Portage, MI) and Richard F. Bennett (Novi, MI), both of whom survive her.

Her family eventually settled in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, where fate led her to her future husband, Thomas William Lloyd. Their romance began at church and blossomed while in high school where they were both members of the band. Marilyn, at 5’2”, played the clarinet while her tall, 6’3” sweetheart served as the drum major. Together, they attended Adrian College before transferring to Michigan State University. Marilyn and Tom were blessed with a marriage of 68 years.

Marilyn and Tom welcomed their first two children, Stephen and Susan in Lansing, MI. After moving to Harrisburg, PA, the family was blessed with two more children, Stuart and Sherrill. In 1969, the family settled in West Columbia, SC, establishing roots in the home Marilyn would lovingly cherish for the rest of her life.

Marilyn lived with a clear purpose: to spread love, positivity, encouragement, and joy to everyone she met. She delighted in cooking for her family and had a passion for baking and decorating cakes and cookies. In the kitchen, she patiently passed down her culinary skills, instilling in her children and grandchildren a lifelong love of cooking and gathering together. From early childhood, Marilyn also possessed a gift and passion for sewing, often crafting matching outfits for herself and her sister. She passed this creative art down to her own family, teaching her children to use a sewing machine at young ages and lovingly handcrafting her daughters’ wedding dresses, as well as her own formal wear for special events. Her 90th birthday was highlighted when she hosted a special sewing lesson in her home for some of her grandchildren, a moment where she was truly in her element of pure joy. Her heart was always fullest when sharing her talents with family.

Marilyn dedicated her professional life to guiding and encouraging students while teaching Home Economics, Life Skills, and Physical Science at Brookland-Cayce High School from 1978 to 1988. Later, she established and directed the daycare center for Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School while teaching there until she retired in 1997. During her career she became a proud member of MENSA International. She possessed an inquisitive mind and a deep love for reading. She also kept her mind sharp and entertained by tackling crossword puzzles, word searches, and Sudoku.

Shortly after moving to South Carolina, the family joined the newly established Trinity United Methodist Church of West Columbia. Over the decades, the members of Trinity became her extended family. She served her church community with immense heart and energy—singing in the choir, actively participating in the United Methodist Women (UMW), and serving as UMW President for many years. Her selfless dedication was recognized and honored as the UMW “Woman of the Year.” In her later years, she continued to share her vitality by leading an exercise and balance class at the church and enjoying Tai Chi alongside her church friends. Her deep faith was the foundation of her inner strength, granting her an enduring joy in all of life’s circumstances, good or bad.

Marilyn’s legacy of unwavering faith, creative grace, uplifting encouragement, and profound love for her family and friends will continue to shine through all who were blessed to know her.

The family extends their deepest appreciation and heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses who provided compassionate care to Marilyn over the past two years, especially Dr. Stacie Boyer, Dr. Scott Graupner, and T’Sheira Scott, NP. The family would also like to acknowledge the wonderful, caring service that Amedysis Hospice provided.

The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1201 Mohawk Drive, West Columbia, SC. The visitation will be held immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or a donation of choice in Marilyn’s honor.