Marilyn Jean Carpenter, 89, of Shelby, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026. She was born September 20, 1936, in Benona Township, the daughter of Harvey and Winifred (Burmeister) Ego.

Marilyn was a life-long resident of Shelby. She attended Shelby High School. Following graduation, she worked at Tom's Dairy Bar and later as a telephone operator for Michigan Bell Telephone Company. Following, she was hired at Lake Shore Community Hospital in the Dietary Department. She would later take over the supervisory position previously held by her mother.

Marilyn married Harry Carpenter on February 14, 1959. They shared many happy years together raising two sons. Between sporting events with the boys, they enjoyed traveling, snowmobiling, and spending time at Stony Lake with their long-time friends. Marilyn was an excellent cook and baker, as well as an avid reader and walker. She could often be seen walking in town and on the rail-trail. She also enjoyed crocheting and creating ceramic pieces, some of which are still enjoyed by her family. Marilyn also enjoyed putting puzzles together and playing games with her two granddaughters, whom she adored.

The family extends their gratitude to Gentiva Hospice of Michigan for their compassionate care.

Marilyn is survived by: her sons, Steven Carpenter and Brian (Jean) Carpenter; grandchildren, Jennifer (Michael) Cope, Kathryn (Paul) Austin; great-grandchildren, Meranda (Haddan) Young, Madelyn and Henry Cope, Chase, Blake and Courtney Austin; and great-great-granddaughter, Stevie Young.

Marilyn was preceded in death by: her parents, Harvey and Winifred Ego, husband Harry Carpenter; brothers, Everett, Jerry and Robert Ego; and one sister, Lavonne Gebhart.

Graveside services will be conducted at 2 pm, Friday, August 7, 2026, at Mt. Hope Cemetery, 2990 W. Woodrow Road, Shelby, Michigan 49455. Visitation will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm, Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, Michigan 49455.

Please consider memorial contributions to: Gentiva Hospice, 1675 Mt. Garfield, Muskegon, Michigan 49444.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com