OSAGE CITY, Kan. – Marilynn Ann (Claypole) Benton, 71, died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, at her home in Osage City, Kansas. She was born on July 11, 1950, in Kansas City, Mo., the daughter of Charles (Red) and RoseMary (Braun) Claypole.

Marilynn grew up in Topeka, Kan., and eventually moved to Scranton, Kan., graduating from high school in 1968.

She was married to Robert Holmes and later divorced. She married Robert Benton, March 20, 1989.

Over the course of her life, Marilynn worked at various places. She managed Collins Carryout and Collins Drive, Topeka. She also worked for Daylight Donuts, Frito Lay, and Pizza Hut. Marilynn and Bob opened Marilynn’s Place, in Osage City, Kan., on June 21, 1991, and later sold the business. She then provided home cleaning and home care for various people in the Osage City area.

Marilynn’s favorite pastimes were spending time with her grandkids, reading (a lot!), watching Kansas State sports and Chiefs football, and taking care of her cats. She also enjoyed taking garden produce and baked goods to the folks at Park Place and the nursing home.

Marilynn was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Marcia Seals.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; daughter, Christine (Holmes) Merrifield; stepdaughters, Laura (Benton) Neely, and Angela Benton; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters, Susan Williams, Corinne Hopkins (Gary), Janice Griffiths (Danny), Emily Bailey (Gary Houska); brother, Stan Claypole (Candy); and sister-in-law Betty Parker (Don).

Family will hold a come and go gathering in honor of Marilynn 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, Osage City.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Osage City Library and sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N. Sixth St., Osage City, KS 66523. Condolences can be left at vanarsdalefs.com.