Marilyn (Gwin) Ashcraft was born June 23, 1932 in Sheridan and was the second of five children born to Earl and Alice (Lowman) Gwin. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at Alcoa Pines Health & Rehab in Benton on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at the age of 87 years and 10 months.

As a youngster she accepted Christ as her Savior and, along with her family, was a charter member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. She worshipped in several churches in the Sheridan and Grapevine communities and could often be found using her talent by playing the piano and organ. She was currently a member of Sardis MBC in Grapevine, although declining health had prevented her from attending.

She married Harold Ashcraft on April 21, 1952, and together they raised 5 children. They celebrated 51 years of marriage before he passed away on Jan. 18, 2004.

Mrs. Ashcraft enjoyed reading, word search puzzles, and cooking (especially during the holidays). At most potlucks and family gatherings her cornbread salad was a requested dish. No one could match her skills at making peanut brittle. She was good natured, but could also stop you in your tracks with a glare from her eyes. She was a care giver to many of the elderly who wanted to remain in their homes as long as possible. She loved her family.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, Dean and Anthony, and by two brothers, Thomas Jay and Lowman.

She is survived by 2 sons: Earl Ray (Debbie) and Bobby (Charlotte) and 1 daughter Carolyn Ashcraft (Pat Mouton) all of Sheridan. In addition there are 5 grandchildren (Melissa, Tony, Nathaniel, Seth and Curtis), 7 great-grandkids, and 1 great-great-grandson. She is also survived by a brother, Aaron (Jamie) Gwin of West Memphis and a sister, Mildred Hitt of Sheridan; along with a host of nieces, nephews, church family and friends.

Due to the health pandemic and the social distancing restrictions currently in place, the family will hold a graveside service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9 ^th , at Pine Ridge Cemetery in Grapevine. Bro. John Williams and Bro. Calvin Holmes will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Pine Ridge Cemetery Association, 1816 Grant 192, Grapevine, AR 72057.