Maralyn Bullion hasn’t stopped caring about others.

It’s what keeps her busy, her mind sharp and her body healthy even at 94 years old, she says.

Busy might be an understatement when one looks at the life Bullion has led. She grew up in Oxford but after graduating from the University of Mississippi, she moved to Atlanta to work for the American Red Cross. There, she met her husband, Col. James Bullion. They moved around until settling in Washington D.C. for 30 years until James’ death in 1991, raising six children in the process.

Bullion eventually returned to Oxford in 1998 to care for her ailing mother.

“I realized how nice Oxford was and decided to stay,” she said.

Improving her hometown

With most of her children living in various states around the country, Bullion found she finally had the time to get involved with volunteering on a regular basis. “I had always wanted to be move involved when I was younger but I didn’t have much time with six children,” she said, chuckling.

Since her return, she has worked to improve her hometown and preserve the history of Oxford by being involved with the Lafayette County Heritage Foundation where she helped preserve the history of Oxford by assisting with the restoration of the L.Q.C. Lamar House and Burns Belfry Church. She is a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, where she serves on the Racial Harmony committee and the Pastoral Care Group, and regularly visits with residents at the North Mississippi Regional Center.

“That’s one of my favorite things to do,” she said. “That’s a very satisfying thing.”

She is also involved with The Book Club and helps to stock books at little libraries. When she isn’t attending a meeting or volunteering for one of the many organizations she’s involved in, she has been spending a good bit of time helping a friend who is sick.

“It’s good for the individual when you care for others,” she said. “You just feel good about yourself when you’re doing something worthwhile. So many people need help. I’d like to be involved with more things but I’m slowing down a little.”

Friend and fellow volunteer Joanne Wilkinson might disagree.

“She volunteers her time on numerous committees and is the first one to volunteer to take a friend to the doctor,” Wilkinson said.

Bullion says volunteering has played a critical role in her life, suggesting it might be the key to her long life.

“That, and my little Wheaten terrier named Rufus,” Bullion said. “He and I are great buddies.”