Marilyn Lujean Lafferty, 80, passed away on March 14, 2017.  She had been in declining health for several months.

She was born in Aubrey, Texas on September 18, 1936 to Purvis and Naomi (Steele) Richey.  As a young girl, she enjoyed all the blessings of living in the country, especially her horse "Streak."  She was a lifetime lover of dogs and horses.  The family moved to Denton in her early teens and she graduated from Denton High School in 1955.  Upon graduation, Marilyn attended Texas Women's University, ultimately earning her master's degree in social work.  She spent 40 years working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a social worker and teacher in South Dakota and Oklahoma.  Her time with the BIA was divided by two years as a Denton County juvenile probation officer and five years as a social worker for Denton County MHMR.  She was adored by her peers and cared deeply for those she served.

Marilyn was pre-deceased by her son, Richey Lafferty in 1982.  She is survived by her husband, Duane of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, her son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Cynthia Schleinat of Denton, her son and daughter-in-law, Len and Lynn Schleinat of Dallas, and three grandchildren, Alix Travis of Denton, and Libby Schleinat and Lauren Schleinat, both of Dallas.

Marilyn's life was immeasurably improved by the care she received at Senior Care of Denton.  The staff truly loved her and we are grateful for all they did to help her live independently for as long as possible.  We are also grateful for the care provided by Ann's Haven Hospice during the final weeks of her life.  In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial gift to either organization.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 10:00am at Belew Cemetery in Aubrey, Texas. On line condolences may be made at www.mulkeybowlesmontgomery.com