Marilyn Carol Nice (née Hejlek), a lifelong resident of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on November 1, 1939, Marilyn was the cherished daughter of the late Eloise (Mullman) and Thomas Hejlek Jr. and a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who brought decades of warmth, laughter, and unwavering love to her home.
Marilyn is survived by her beloved husband, Earl V. Nice. Deeply devoted to one another, they were looking forward to celebrating 64 beautiful years of marriage next month on June 23rd.
Above all, Marilyn cherished time spent with her family, surrounding herself with the joy of the generations. She found her greatest happiness in life’s simple pleasures, whether she was hosting lively holiday celebrations, organizing family reunions, or sitting around the table sharing a competitive game of cards, she loved creating lasting memories.
She leaves behind a deeply loved family who will carry forward her legacy of kindness, including her children, Mark Nice, Cheryl Nice, and Karen (Michael) Vangyia. Marilyn was the proud grandmother of Devin (Alexis), Derek (Ashleigh), and Dylan Brunk, and Madison and Logan Vangyia. She was also blessed to be the great-grandmother of Emily, Jennifer, and Jamison Brunk.
Marilyn is also survived by her three dear sisters, Janet Haselhorst, Diane Hejlek, and Kathy Ansted. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Kent Nice, who passed away on May 27, 2020, and her dear brother, Thomas Hejlek III, who passed away last year on July 24, 2025.
Service and Memorial Information
Family and friends are invited to gather, remember, and celebrate Marilyn’s long and beautiful life:
* Visitation: Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kutis Funeral Home (10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis, MO 63123)
* Funeral Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, at 8:45 AM in the Kutis Funeral Home Chapel
* Interment: Burial following the service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery (2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO 63125)
* Tributes: Marilyn loved flowers! And often donated to children’s charities. So flowers are welcome or donations can be made in Marilyn’s memory to Cardinal Glennon, St. Louis Children’s, Shriners Children’s Hospitals or a local charity of your choice, honoring her generous spirit.