Marilyn C. Keairns

Marilyn Carol Keairns, age 90, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on July 2, 2026. She was born the daughter of Lowell and Verna Sandusky, on September 26, 1935, in Sioux City, Iowa.

Marilyn dedicated many years of service to both Principal and the VA Medical Center, in the Canteen. She was a faithful, longtime member of Highland Park Christian Church, where she also enjoyed fellowship through the Dorcas Sewing Club. A talented seamstress, Marilyn took great pride in creating beautiful quilts, including Quilts of Valor, each one made with care and love for those who received them.

Marilyn found joy in life's simple pleasures, especially sharing dinners with family and friends and going to the movies. Marilyn's love for her family, her faith, and the friendships she cherished will be remembered always. She will be deeply missed by her family, dear friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children Donald (Mitzi) Keairns Jr. and Amy (Greg) VanZandt, grandchildren Stephanie (Jason) Pullen, Valerie VanZandt, Vanessa (Clayton Benge) VanZandt, Jamie (T.J.) Harris, Ashley (Tim) Larkin, Kai (Ravit) Gilletti, and Casey (Felicia) Gilletti, 13 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Paula Sandusky, best friend Kathy Newcomb, and a host of extended family and friends.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband Donald Keairns, Sr., and her brothers Carl (Shirley) Sandusky, Alan Sandusky, and Vernon Sandusky.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2026, with funeral service following at 12:00 p.m., at Highland Park Christian Church, 4260 NW 6th Dr., Des Moines. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Highland Park Christian Church in memory of Marilyn.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print