Marilyn Lavada (Colson) Fernald

Marilyn Lavada (Colson) Fernald died peacefully of a massive stroke on December 29, 2006. Marilyn was born on 9/5/1932 in Hazelhurst, Georgia. She began her career with the Office of Special Investigations (USAF) in Warner Robins, Georgia. In 1956 she moved to Tachikawa, Japan and met Allen M. whom she married in 1957. They returned to the U.S. and, after many moves, settled with their children in Douglasville, Georgia. Marilyn worked and volunteered in many areas but all had the common theme of helping those in need and having the opportunity to visit with others. Her greatest job was that of mother. She taught her children many things including discipline, perseverance and kindness. Marilyn had a quirky sense of humor, could be stubborn as a mule, and was always quick to help others. She loved animals but birds the most. She ensured that her children could pick out different species of birds and constantly competed with her sister to see who could get more hummingbirds in their yard. She loved reading, poetry, crossword puzzles and watching Wheel-of-Fortune. She leaved behind many family and friends who were blessed to have known her. Marilyn is survived by her husband, Allen M., her daughters, Mimi Fernald-Lanford and Genie Fernald-Heimbigner, son-in-law, Brett Heimbigner, son, Mark, daughter-in-law, Lynn Fernald, sister, Virginia Leatherwood, brother, Charles Colson, nieces, nephews, and six grandchildren. There will be no funeral but a private memorial at a later date. God bless you Mom and may he keep you in his care.