Marilyn Thomas Hartsell passed away Saturday, September 22, 2018 in Moore County.
Marilyn was born May 19, 1931 in Stanly County, N.C. to Jennie C. Smith and Wriston Thomas.

She attended Oakboro Schools and graduated from UNCG with a degree in clothing and textiles. Upon graduation she worked as a Home Economist with the NC Extension Service in Gaston and Durham counties.
She and her husband moved to Southern Pines in the early 60s and she became active in many community organizations including the Southern Pines Garden Club, the Appearance Commission, Weymouth Center, and the Moore County Historical Association.
Devoted to preservation of Moore County history, she was involved with many activities at Shaw House. For many years, she planned and escorted educational tours in the U.S. and Canada for the Award for outstanding Volunteer Service.
Her passion was for local history, needle work, quilting, gardening, travel, nature’s beauty and her dogs.
The graveside service will be on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Philadelphia Baptist Church, 12568 Philadelphia Church Road, Stanfield, NC, officiated by Milton Sills. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall after the service.
Her parents, brothers Harvey and Brady Thomas, and a sister, Louise Thomas, preceeded Marilyn in death.
She is survived by her son, Thomas C. Hartsell, grandchildren, Alex, Grace, Caroline and Max, niece Pam T. Holbrook and husband Gus of Albemarle, great niece, Jennifer H. Enzor and husband, Matt, great-great nephew, Brayden Enzor, and great-great niece, Lilly Enzor of Raleigh.
Memorials may be made to Moore County Historical Association Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 324, Southern Pines, NC 28388 or to an organization of the donor’s choice.
Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Hartsell family.
Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com.