Marilyn Wilt

Marilyn Marie Wilt, a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024 at the age of 93. Her departure was as she lived—surrounded by the love, stories, and tight-knit warmth of those she cherished. A spirited soul from the start, Marilyn was born on September 23, 1931, in Highland Park, Michigan, to David and Donna (née Fosnacht) Stamy. As a child, Marilyn called Huntington Woods home before moving to Madison Heights, Mt. Clemens and finally Royal Oak. She was a proud graduate of Royal Oak High School and carried her drive for learning forward by earning her Associate of Arts Degree in 1952 from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. Marilyn continued her education at Eastern Michigan University, where she achieved her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy in 1954. Her passion for helping others led her to a fulfilling career at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, where she worked as an occupational therapist from 1954 to 1957. After dedicating time to raising her family, she rejoined the workforce in 1988 as a paraprofessional in Special Education with Royal Oak Schools, enriching the lives of students until her retirement in 1991. Known for her quick wit, warm smile, and impeccable ironing skills, Marilyn had many passions. From her care in the kitchen preparing her famous deviled eggs, baked beans, or snickerdoodle cookies to her ceramic studio in the basement, artistically crafting home goods to adorn your holiday table. She had a spirited seat at the card table, playing bridge with several friend groups, challenging others at board games and piecing together puzzles. And most importantly, she never missed a milestone in which she sent heartfelt cards and scratch off tickets to celebrate the occasion. Whether signing her cards by name or as Mom, Grandma, Auntie M or Super G, Her thoughtful gestures transcended generations, leaving lasting impressions on those she loved. Marilyn's devotion to her family and friends were only paralleled by her passion for animals. Known as an "animal magnet," she had a particular fondness for dogs and horses, who seemed to sense her kind and nurturing spirit. Her home was always open to visitors—two-legged or four—and she thrived on the joy of being surrounded by others. As a member of First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak for many years, Marilyn's faith and connection to community were constants in her life. Marilyn's spirit and legacy live on through her children, Donna (Mark) Borowy, Jim (Heidi) Wilt, Barb (Mark) Mendola, and the late John (Maria) Wilt. Her grandchildren—Jeremy (Cristina) Smith, Megan (Bob) Musumeci, Paul Wilt, Gretchen (Jake) Schell, Luke (Meredith) Wilt, Mike (Amanda) Mendola, David Mendola, and Maria Mendola—were her pride and joy, as were her great-grandchildren, Logan and Miles Musumeci. Marilyn also leaves behind the fond memories and enduring love of her late brothers, Donald (the late Virginia) Stamy and Bob (the late Margie) Stamy. Marilyn's family will celebrate her incredible life with a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak, 529 Hendrie Blvd, on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 am, followed by the service at 11:00 am. In honor of Marilyn's generous spirit, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak or Michigan Humane, two causes close to her heart. To share your memories and celebrate Marilyn's life, please visit www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com. As Marilyn would say with a big smile on her face, "Lord love a duck"!

Marilyn Wilt

September 23, 1931 - December 13, 2024