Marilyn Louise Balinski

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Marilyn Louise Balinski, who left this world on January 29, 2025, in Centerville, Texas, at the age of 74. Marilyn was born on October 3, 1950, in Aiken, South Carolina, to Arthur Raymond Hancock and Gladys Marie Mathis.

Marilyn's journey took her to Houston, Texas, where she graduated high school, and later led her to Dayton, Texas, where she lived the majority of her life. She dedicated her career to the environment, retiring as an Environmental Secretary and Safety Coordinator, a role that showcased both her love for the planet and her commitment to safety in her community.

Those who knew Marilyn will fondly remember her as an avid prayer warrior. She immersed herself in the scriptures, always seeking to deepen her relationship with the Lord, and had a particular fondness for the Hebrew Bible. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she adored spending time talking to God.

Marilyn's love for life shone through during the holiday seasons, especially Christmas and Easter. In fact, she loved Christmas so much that she kept her tree up year-round, bringing a bit of joy and sparkle to her everyday life. She had a special place in her heart for animals and nature, often marveling at the beauty of the world around her.

Above all, Marilyn cherished her role as a grandmother. She was devoted to her family, particularly her beloved grandchildren. Her warmth, laughter, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

Marilyn was preceded in death by both of her parents; foster parents, Merlin & Joyce Bellamy; brothers, Tommy & Ernie Hancock; and nephews, Jeff Vinson & Kevin Felchak.

Surviving family members include daughters, April Kmiec and husband, Alvin, of Centerville and Amanda Balinski of Bastrop; sisters, Ruby Irene Felchak of Humble and Patsy Duncan of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; brother, Johnny Case of Charlston, South Carolina; beloved granddaughters, Michaela, Maddie and Josselyn Kmiec; former husband of twenty years and father to April & Amanda, Gene Balinski; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

In honor of Marilyn's life, a home going service will be held at Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 2 PM. Pastor William Plotts will officiate the service. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate her remarkable life and the impact she made on so many. Following the service, she will be laid to rest, in St. Leo the Great Catholic Cemetery providing a final opportunity to honor her memory.

Pallbearers: Corey Perry, Rodney Gatlin, JD Gatlin, Alvin Kmiec

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Texas at https://spca.org/support-us/give/donate-now/#/form

Final arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas.