Marilyn Eleanor Mims

Marilyn Eleanor Mims, aged 89, of Stanley, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday morning, July 8, 2025.Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on April 22, 1936, she was the daughter of William “Bill” and Marie Conrad.

Her life was characterized by her favorite Bible verses, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6.
Her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life, and it shone through in her love and service to others. Her life was a beautiful example of godliness. She walked closely with the Lord and served Him faithfully in both big and small ways, never seeking recognition, only to be a blessing.

Marilyn invested her life in caring for others. After completing her nursing training in Pennsylvania, she moved to Charlotte, North Carolina where she was an RN in a local hospital. Along with her husband, she helped start Shelby Christian School and Harvest Time Bible Camp, spending years as the principle of SCS and running the kitchen at Harvest Time. She invested her life into the many children that came through the school and the camp. She did all she could to give the gospel to them and show them the love of Jesus.
Through the years, she was a faithful member of Northside Baptist Church, Faith Baptist Church, Blessed Hope Baptist Church, and presently Beth Haven Baptist Church. She spent years teaching Sunday School, ministering to those in nursing homes, visiting shut-ins, playing the piano, and sending heartfelt cards to encourage her church family.

Marilyn is survived by her children, David (Dana) Mims, Charlaine Karam, and Barry (Annette) Mims; her grandchildren, Jackson (Meredith) Mims, Nicole Karam, Anna (Kyle)Snyder, Parker (Claire) Mims, Lindsi Karam, William Mims, and Jonathan Mims; her great-grandchildren, Georgia Mims, Marley Mims, Edwin Mims; her sister, Darlene Ruzicka; her nephew Mark Ruzicka; and her niece Denise Ruzicka.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marie Conrad; her former husband, Herman “Bud” Mims; her brother, Gerard Conrad; her son, Darryl Mims; her son-in-law, Steve Karam; and two infant grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, July 13 at Beth Haven Baptist Church at five o’clock in the evening, officiated by her son, Pastor David Mims. Visitation will be held at three o’clock prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Beth Haven Baptist Church Cemetery.