Marion was also a dear friend of mine while she lived in Gatlinburg. We shared the stage on several performances in both the Sevier County Theater Guild (I played the other Mother in THE FANTASTICKS with Lew Bolton) and Gatlinburg Community Chorus. Her husband Jim was also a precious friend to me. I treasure her friendship, especially when I went through a hard time in my life. I had also lost track of her and I am glad to know that she was able to be with her daughter. I still miss her.

Marion and I first worked on THE FANTASTICKS in Gatlinburg; she played my mom and called herself that in real life. Later, she was a scene stealer vocalist in OUR TOWN. I directed her in my one-act TRIAD AT NIGHTFALL. She was reluctant to take a speaking role, as she couldn't remember lines like she once could; I gave her a non-speaking part as a waitress with lots of reactions; she was perfectly funny. I lost contact when she moved to Sevierville and have wondered what happened to her. Glad to hear she spent last years with her daughter. Marion was a treasure and is missed.

Hi Marion,

Thank you for the laughter we shared at Applewood. We sure had fun in chorus. We spent a lot of time laughing while we sang. And going to dinner with Elaine while you two tried to sell me on New Jersey's beauty!! I was sticking up for the Adirondacks in Autumn! It was a fun ride as we drove aound looking at beautiful gardens. Thank you for all your recitations at events, of poetry and bible verses, and meaningful dialogues. We will miss you a lot. But we are grateful that we had shared time together. Even now, while writing this, memories are of mirth and I have a smile on my face. Thank you. Marion, for sharing the blessing of joy with us.

Helen Kho

I will cherish all the many memories I have, especially of our trips all over the world. We had a lot of fun on our adventures.

Charry

Marion Ausmus was an incredible lady and an inspiration to so many who knew her. Marion was a mentor, mother, and dear friend to me. She taught me to believe in myself and and encouraged me to follow my dreams. I am certain that I would not be where I am had she not come into my life when she did. Her enthusiasm for life and unselfish love was a witness of her faith to all who had the opportunity to know her. She poured into my life and I will be forever grateful for her investment in me. She will be missed, but never forgotten. I will see her again some day. We served and loved the same Savior. She is now in His presence. No doubt that Jesus has spoken these words to her: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Go rest, Marion. You deserve it. I am a better human being for having known you. I will see you someday soon. I love you more than words!!!!

Billy Wayne Arrington... Phil. 1:6