As a child, Marilyn attended Lawrence County Community Schools. She graduated from Central High School in Courtland, Alabama, in 1967. Upon graduation, Marilyn enrolled in Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama. After leaving Miles College, she made Birmingham her home. 

 Marilyn possessed many talents and had many hobbies that she put to good use during her many jobs. Marilyn's Hobbies included traveling, watching movies, shopping, and cooking. She was known for her delicious lemon pound cake and the best homemade biscuits this side of Alabama. She worked at retail stores and restaurants, but her most rewarding job was caring for and looking after children. 

 Marilyn was known to be a nurturing and caring woman by all who knew her. As a young teen, she looked after her younger brothers and sisters, cleaned the home, assisted with homework, and cooked meals while her mother and father worked to provide for the family. Marilyn continued this nurturing tradition as she looked after and cared for generations of neighborhood children throughout the years while their parents worked. The children Marilyn cared for adored her so much that they would come back and have her look after their children in their absence. The Savage family was also very blessed to have Marilyn leave her home in Birmingham for months at a time to care for her ailing mother, Leola Savage, in her senior years.

 Marilyn loved to serve the Lord. She was a member of the Zion Star Missionary Baptist Church for over 40 years. She sang in the church choir and served on the food and hospitality committee.

 Marilyn never met a stranger and will be remembered for her witty humor, bright smile, and meticulous, pristine appearance. Marilyn never missed a beat. She would rise early in the morning to beautify herself with lipstick, perfume, and neatly ironed clothing before the average person's first-morning stretch.

 Marilyn leaves to cherish her loving memory forever: two sons, Jeffery Savage (Phyllis) and Christopher Savage; six grandchildren, Jeremiah, Jeffery, Maya, Isaiah, Khloe, and Chrishawn; two sisters, Brenda Robinson and Evelyn Davis (Daryl); four brothers, Willie Ed, Melvin Savage (Pat), Stewart Savage (Ebony) and Charles Savage; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and beautiful children that she cared for over the years.

 Marilyn died peacefully at the south health and rehabilitation center in Birmingham, Alabama.