Marilyn Pamela Williams was born on May 16, 1961 in Cleveland Ohio to Chester and Clarice Williams. Education was of the utmost importance to Marilyn. Her educational career began at Cleveland Public Schools where she graduated from South High School. She began her college studies attending Marquette and Cleveland State University where she earned her undergraduate degree. Marilyn then went on to receive her Juris Doctorate Degree from Cleveland Marshall College of Law.

Marilyn found love and married Arthur Cotton. The two recently celebrated 29 years of marriage. Marilyn and Arthur Cotton did everything together whether sharing a love of dogs, camping, fishing, going to the theater or traveling the world! On March 8, 2020 Arthur and Marilyn departed from this life, together.

Marilyn is survived by her sisters: Cheryl Hall (William) and Barbara Horton, Nieces: Ashley Hall-Green (Jathod), Arenda Horton (Jamie) and Janelle Horton. Nephews: Brenton Hall and Johnathon Horton. Great Nieces: Emani Dear-Hall, Anastasia Hall and Great Nephews: Gavin, Todd, Gabriel and Gerald Green, Church Mother Donna Brown and Church Sister Elnora Scott. Marilyn is also survived by a host of family and friends.