Marilyn Stout Olin

Marilyn Stout Olin, 75, of Nashville, Indiana, passed away on July 14, 2025. She was born on March 2, 1950, in Kokomo, Indiana, to the late Joseph Leonard and Virginia Stout.

Marilyn's academic journey began at Northwestern Senior High School in Kokomo. She furthered her education studying Anthropology/Religious Studies at IUPUI, reflecting her deep appreciation for cultural diversity and history.

Marilyn worked for a number of organizations during her life but the two she reflected on most frequently were the Indiana Arts Commission and USA Group. She carved an early path in her career as a project manager and grant writer for the CETA Working Artist program at the Indiana Arts Commission in Indianapolis. Later in her career, she served as Executive Assistant to the CIO at USA Group in Fishers. She took great pride in the work she did in these roles.

She had a profound affection for all animals, particularly her cats and dogs (and grand-cats and grand-dogs), and the birds, squirrels and chipmunks that kept her entertained from her front porch. She found joy in music, reading, traveling, and crafting. Her favorite place on earth was Casey Key, Florida, a discovery her family made more than 50 years ago that became a nearly annual retreat for most of her life. Her adventures often led her west and southwest to various national parks and areas with Native American significance. Marilyn had a deep appreciation for Native American culture, specifically the Lakota and Sioux traditions, as well as a desire to better understand a wide variety religions and cultures.

Throughout her life, Marilyn fostered connections and made friends, particularly during her time living in Woodruff Place, where she was also a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Music was always in her heart, inspiring and connecting her to people, places, and experiences. Whether it was through her participation at North Methodist Church as an active member of the choir, attending powwows across the country, singing and dancing at bluegrass festivals, or simply singing along in the car, music grounded her, connected her, and brought her great joy.

Marilyn is survived by her loving spouse, Jim; children, Kelly Clements and Erin Shipley (Karie); Jim’s daughters Laura (Doug) White and Michelle (Ray) Petronzio; grandchildren, Joshua Shipley, Joseph (Deeanna) Shipley, Makayla (Alex) Salazar, Aaron Shipley, and James White; great-grandchildren, Gabe and Eva; sister, Sue Dillon; and Sue’s son, Bronson Frick, and his family.

Marilyn was preceded in passing by her parents and her sister who passed in infancy, Lynette. She was also preceded by her lifelong best friend, Donna Brubeck (nee Meadows), with whom Marilyn had amazing adventures often “taking the long way,” as they always liked to say.

Her adventurous spirit, love of music and learning, compassion for animals, and dedication to her loved ones will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 12pm to 2pm, with a service to follow at 2pm, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46250.

During the visitation, guests are encouraged to share their favorite memory of Marilyn on the memory cards provided.

In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Marilyn’s honor to Brown County Humane Society.