Marilyn Neilson, 85, passed away in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, on August 13, 2017.  Marilyn was born in Arlington, South Dakota, to Marion and Vivian Shanks.  She graduated from Arlington High School.  Marilyn attended and studied English at Eastern University.  She was a beloved teacher and taught school in Montana and Minnesota.  Marilyn was married to Henry Darrah and had 6 children.  She was employed at Larson’s Manufacturing for 17 years.    She enjoyed being with her family, golfing, bowling, and traveling.  Marilyn loved watching NFL Football and she really enjoyed betting with her family and friends during the games.  She married Walt Neilson on August 10, 1973, and they were happily married until his death.  

Marilyn was preceded in death by her son, Jim Darrah; husband, Walt Neilson; her parents, Marion and Vivian Shanks; and her brothers, Monty Shanks and Harold Shanks.  She is survived by her five children: Robert Darrah (Susan), Joseph Darrah (Chris), Colleen Darrah Sanders (David), Cathy Dacquel (Randy), and Joleen Ness; her grandchildren, Hunter Ness,  Dylan Sanders, Cassidy Sanders,  Alex (Whitney)  Dacquel, Cody Dacquel,  Max Dacquel, Sierra Darrah, Maria Darrah, Heidi Darrah, Jim (Lindsay) Darrah; and her three great grandchildren, Berkley Darrah, Marley Darrah, Kameron Browder. A Memorial Mass will be held on August 16, 2017, 2:00 p.m., at Ashford Court at Marsh Landing, 1700 The Greens Way, Jacksonville Beach, FL.  Please sign the online guestbook at www.pontevedravalley.com.