Marilyn Kay Kelly

Marilyn K Kelly (1950—2026) passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026, at home in Farmington, New Mexico. Born to Harold and Dorothy Herrmann on May 23, 1950. Marilyn graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Education followed by a Master of Education from Eastern New Mexico University. Marilyn began her teaching career in Roy and Mosquero, NM before moving to teach in Tucumcari, NM where she met her beloved husband Eugene Debs Kelly Jr. Marilyn left teaching to care for her family. While her sons were growing, she enjoyed sewing and crafting, winning many ribbons at the Quay County Fair. She also loved reading, playing the organ at home and church, put together puzzles and playing board games with friends and family. Marilyn loved sharing words of wisdom to friends and family, including "be sure to treat others kindly, even if they are not kind to you as you never know what they are going through." After their sons were grown, Marilyn and Debs moved to Walsenburg, CO where she returned to teaching Kindergarten and Title One before retiring in 2012. Marilyn had a love of the mountains, wildlife, wildflowers and nature in general, enjoying birding and photographing animals and flowers. Marilyn and Debs moved to Farmington, NM in 2018 to be closer to family. Marilyn married her beloved husband, Eugene Debs Jr, on December 27, 1974. Together, they raised two children, Eugene Debs Ill and Jonathan. Known for her generally happy personality, infectious laughter, and steady kindness, Marilyn was loved and will be missed by her family, extended family, friends, and students.

 She is survived by her Husband Eugene Debs Jr, brothers: Phillip Herrmann and Melvin Herrmann, children: Eugene Debs Ill (Ruthann) and Jonathan, and two grandchildren: Elizabeth and Emily. She was preceded in death by her parents. 

Marilyn's Celebration of Life will be held on a date and location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salmon Ruins Museum for the Northwest New Mexico Site Stewards, Echo Food Bank, American Legion Post #93 in Farmington, or install a bird feeder in your yard and feed your local and migratory birds.