Marilyn M. (Rathbun) Smiley, 79, of Granville Summit, PA, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, while surrounded by her loving family. Born Marilyn Marie Rathbun on December 21, 1946, in Blossburg, she was the daughter of the late Alva “Dean” and Doris (Morgan) Rathbun. She attended Canton Area Schools and graduated with the Class of 1964.

On July 31, 1966, Marilyn married her true love, Dean Smiley, at the Grover Church of Christ. Together they shared sixty years of devoted marriage and raised three sons. Later in life, Marilyn pursued her calling in healthcare, attending Nursing School in Towanda where she earned her LPN. She then continued her education at the Finger Lakes School of Massage and became a licensed Massage Therapist.

Marilyn carried a strong work ethic throughout her life, and even after retiring she devoted her days to serving as a volunteer grandma at Troy Area Schools. Fiercely competitive, she had a way of coming out on top, especially when a deck of cards was involved. She poured her creativity into quilting, crafting pieces that became treasured keepsakes for those she loved. Picnics were her happy place, and any chance to gather her family around her was something she cherished. Her family remained her greatest priority, the center of her heart and the source of her deepest love. Time spent with her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren brought her unmatched joy, filling her days with warmth and purpose.

Marilyn leaves behind her husband, Dean, at home, children; Michael Smiley, Robert (Jennifer) Smiley and William (Starr) Smiley, grandchildren; Amber Yates, Michael Smiley Jr., Noah Smiley, Kinsley Smiley, Colin Kilborn and Heather Smiley, step grandchildren; Adam, Matt, Ryan, Josh, Marissa, Russell and Kimberly, 15 great grandchildren, sister; Joyce Knuutila, sisters-in-laws; Donna Rathbun, Shirely Rathbun, Dawn Rathbun and Donna Shepard as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides her parents, Marilyn was predeceased by her siblings; Leon, Robert and Ralph Rathbun.

A time of visitation will be held from Noon to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. A funeral service and committal will follow at 1:30. Burial will be in the Grover Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Marilyn’s name may be directed to Guthrie Hospice, 421 Tomahawk Road, Towanda, PA 18848. Memories of Marilyn and condolences to her family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com.