TYLER, Texas — Former Miss Texas and Tyler native Molly Grubb Lynn died at the age of 77.
Lynn passed away on Sept. 13 after a life that was marked by "her vibrant spirit, dedication to her passions, and love for her family," according to her obituary. She graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler and later earned a bachelor’s degree in art education from Texas Christian University.
She used art as an outlet for her creativity, especially painting, in addition to her academic aspirations, the obituary reads.
Lynn, who competed as Miss Fort Worth in the pageant, was crowned Miss Texas in 1967. Her memorial says the win launched a successful career in acting and modeling.
"Her warm and engaging personality left a lasting impression within her community," the obituary reads. "Molly’s life was one of creativity, love, and service, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her."
She is survived by her two sons, Tyler and Tag Lynn. Her passing is preceded by the deaths of husband, Jimmy Lynn, and her parents, Marcia and Paul Grubb.
Actress and singer Betty Buckley said in an Instagram post last week she and Lynn have been friends since their days at TCU as they bonded through their experience as "reluctant" Miss Fort Worth people. She crowned Lynn and was her friend throughout her time as Miss Texas while competing in the Miss America pageant.
"We helped each other find a resilience that has lasted all these years. I love Molly very much and can’t believe she is gone," Buckley said.
Buckley also said Molly and her husband Jimmy flew her and her now ex-husband Peter Flood to Palmilla, Mexico, witnessing their wedding in the village church.
"She was my strong, lovely and wonderful pal," Buckley said while sending her love to her family.