Marilyn B. (Carmichael) Oliver

In Loving Memory

Marilyn Blair Carmichael Oliver passed away on August 20, 2025, at the age of 73, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. A resident of Woodbridge, Virginia, at the time of her passing, she was born on September 1, 1951, in Fairmont, West Virginia, the beloved third child of the late Hayden Montgomery Carmichael and Marian Louise “Oppie” Oppenheimer Carmichael.

She was preceded in death by her husband and soulmate, James Drew Oliver.

Marilyn is survived by her stepdaughter, Claire Elizabeth Oliver, with whom she shared a strong and loving bond; her brother, Don Carmichael, and his wife, Sandra; their children, Amy, Holly, and Tyler; her sister, Linda Carmichael Harley; and her cherished niece, Heather. She also leaves behind her brother- and sisters-in-law, Guy Oliver, Linda Oliver, and Beth Powell, who remained a meaningful part of her life after Drew’s passing.

Marilyn’s early years were spent in Statesboro, Georgia, where she attended Marvin Pittman School and later graduated with honors from Statesboro High School in 1969. A gifted student and musician, she went on to graduate cum laude from Georgia Southern College in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science in Education in vocal music. She began her career in education in St. Marys, Georgia, where she shared her love of music with her students. She later transitioned into different roles in real estate, insurance, and law, ultimately retiring as a paralegal in Savannah, Georgia.

Marilyn met James “Drew” Oliver in Mobile, Alabama, and the two were later married. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. They shared many passions—especially boating and spending time on the water—and were best friends as well as true soulmates.

Though Marilyn was unable to have biological children, her nurturing spirit flourished in her relationship with Drew’s daughter, Claire. She was a loving and steady presence in Claire’s life and helped shape her into the woman she is today. Marilyn also embraced motherhood through her beloved pets, treasuring her many cats over the years—most especially her precious Tiffany Marie.

Marilyn will be remembered as a devoted daughter, sister, wife, aunt, and stepmother. She was fiercely protective of those she loved and is remembered for her intellect, resilience, generosity, and quick wit. She leaves behind a legacy of music, love, and steadfast friendship, and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Marilyn was cremated on August 25, 2025. Honoring her wishes, her ashes will be joined with those of her late husband, Drew, and scattered in Mobile Bay, the place where they met, fell in love, and shared some of their most cherished memories. An intimate ceremony will be held in the coming months to celebrate her life and reunite her with Drew in their special place. Details of the ceremony will be shared with family and friends.

Honoring Marilyn's wishes, memorial contributions may be made in her name to support Alzheimer’s disease research.