POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks mourns the passing of Dr. Marilyn Lou Graves, long-term administrator who served at the College in various capacities from 1970 to 2013. Graves, 81, of Osage, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023, at Hillcrest Home in Harrison.
Graves’ passion for education and sports led her to join the physical education department at College of the Ozarks in 1970. Over the course of more than 40 years, she made significant contributions to the institution in various capacities.
Graves was instrumental in the development of the College’s sports program. She not only established the volleyball program but also coached it for 18 years. In addition, she coached women’s basketball, tennis, and cross country, leaving a lasting impact on her students.
Her leadership qualities were evident as she served as division chair and later as dean of the College. She co-chaired the NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship for 14 years.
A life of courageous leadership
“Marilyn was great to work for and with,” said Dr. Eric Bolger, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College. “She was patient and kind and was a true Bobcat, a fan of the College. She was always attentive to students and cared for the ‘least of these.’ She stepped into executive leadership and made some tough decisions. She was known for her support of the athletic program, having been a coach, and never willingly missed a home game.”
Graves retired in 2013 and was inducted into the College of the Ozarks Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. The Marilyn L. Graves Gymnasium in the Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex was named in honor of her service and leadership at College of the Ozarks.
“Dr. Graves was a terrific leader,” said College of the Ozarks Athletic Director Steve Shepherd. “She cared about all who came under her leadership, both students and employees. She loved C of O and Bobcat athletics. Her leadership, passion and wisdom were major factors in the success of athletics at College of the Ozarks. We were all part of her family. The fact that C of O is an amazing place has a lot to do with the influence of Marilyn Graves.”
Becky Mullis, College of the Ozarks head women’s basketball coach, played basketball at the College and learned under her tutelage.
“Dr. Graves was a no-nonsense, yet caring and loving leader,” Mullis said. “She had a big heart for our students, especially our student athletes and coaches. She expected each of us to do our best and held us to high standards. She led us with dignity and humility.
“I believe she was so dedicated to the College because she related to the kind of students we have at C of O. She came from a rural, farming background, similar to many of our students. She desired to give students like her an opportunity to earn a degree. She also related to the work ethic required at our school. Dr. Graves did not have any children of her own, so she considered us her kids, investing in us accordingly. She inspired me as a female in the coaching profession, proving that a woman can be successful in our line of work.”
A lasting legacy
Those who participate in athletics are still influenced by the impact Graves made, as her legacy lives on.
“Dr. Graves’ lasting legacy is the love and care she had for our students and those for whom she worked,” Mullis said. “She advocated for students and went out of her way to take students under her wing, providing them with an opportunity to earn an education. People still talk about the way she helped them during a tough time in their lives. She lived out the mission of the College every day.”
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Alpena Cemetery in Alpena, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Holt Memorial Chapel of Harrison.
The family requests that memorials be made to College of the Ozarks, PO Box 17, Point Lookout, Missouri, 65726. To share memories, condolences, or to contribute to Graves’ online memorial, please visit www.HoltChapel.com.
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