Marilyn Barnes, age 62, of Florala, Alabama, passed away October 7, 2026. She was born February 3, 1964, in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Lyle Bright and Neva Staats Bright.

Marilyn had a beautiful singing voice and a love for music. While attending Highland Park High School in Topeka, she auditioned for the elite Scot Singers and earned a place in the group. This accomplishment brought her great pride and remained a treasured memory throughout her life. In 1988, Marilyn began working alongside her husband, Richard, at Cox Hardware, which they owned and operated together. She enjoyed helping customers and being part of a business that served the Florala community. She later opened Marilyn’s Hair Magic, where her talent, care, and friendly spirit earned the affection of many devoted clients. Marilyn had a gift for helping people look and feel their best, and the friendships she formed in her salon extended far beyond the styling chair. When she was away from work, Marilyn loved riding motorcycles with Richard. Riding her Honda Shadow 600, she enjoyed their afternoon trips around the area, sharing the open road and the pleasure of time together. She also enjoyed boating and fishing. Marilyn had a tender heart for animals and offered love and attention to dogs, cats, and any creature that needed care. Her chickens held a particularly special place in her heart and were truly pets to her. Richard often said that if he could not find Marilyn around the house, he knew where to look outside, sitting in a chair with her chickens. She called them by name, petted them, and found happiness in their company. Marilyn’s love for Florala was reflected in her service to the community. Through her involvement with the Tri-City Chamber of Commerce, she devoted many hours to making the town beautiful, especially at Christmas. Often serving as chairperson for the holiday decorations, she brought creativity, dedication, and joy to the work. The festive town she helped create gave residents a sense of pride and made the season brighter for everyone. Marilyn will be remembered for her many talents, her compassion for animals, her devotion to Richard and Travis, and the care she showed her customers, friends, and community. Her presence will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lyle Bright and Neva Staats Bright; and her brother, David Bright.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Barnes; son, Travis; brother, Larry Bright (Wilma); sisters, Sheila Volland and Judy Turner (William); and an abundance of extended loved ones, including numerous nieces and nephews. 

Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made in Marilyn’s memory to Cancer Freeze, P.O. Box 92, Florala, Alabama 36442.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held Monday, October 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Billy Pickron officiating. Visitation will begin one hour before the service.