Marilyn Ashby
Age - 78
December 9, 2023
Marilyn Jeanne Rhodes Ashby was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven on December 3, 2023. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Marilyn, the oldest of two daughters, was born in Thomas, Oklahoma to Travis and Maxine Rhodes. She was raised in Oklahoma, where her father was a successful football coach, and her mother was a beloved teacher and administrator. She graduated in 1963 from Charles Page High School in Sand Springs, Oklahoma and entered Oklahoma State University in the fall. She later transferred to North Texas State University where she received a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Marilyn later attained a Master's degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. Marilyn's career was marked by countless moments of joy. She touched the lives of many children and developed lifelong friendships with fellow educators. Marilyn dedicated over 25 years of her life to the noble profession of teaching and completed her career in Humble ISD at Willowcreek Elementary. Her impact in education was immeasurable, as both of her daughters followed in her path and became teachers. In 2021, Marilyn moved from Kingwood, Texas to an independent retirement community in Spring, Texas where she was very active and made countless, dear friendships. Marilyn valued her family deeply and cherished them above all else. She was a devoted mother and was adored by her daughters and all her family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Travis and Maxine Rhodes. She is survived by her sister and best friend, Sue Ann McKinney and brother-in-law, Marvin E. McKinney. Marilyn is also survived by daughter Andrea Michelle Harper, son-in-law Kevin Harper, daughter Jennifer Leigh Dietrich and son-in-law Zachary Dietrich, grandchildren whom she treasured and adored: Kaitlyn Harper Korry and husband Travis, Kyle Harper and fiance Chelsey Kirkland, Caroline Harper and Nora Dietrich. In addition, Marilyn is survived by niece Allyson McKinney-Timm, husband Simon, Matthew McKinney, wife Stacy, and great niece and nephew Holland and Jake McKinney. The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Dr. George Kantis and Dr. Padma Kumashi for their years of true compassion and care. Additionally, they would like to thank Dr. Andrew Jackson, Dr. Ali Hussein, Dr. Ojas Naik, and Dr. Judith Peyechu along with countless amazing nurses and staff members of Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Woodlands. The family is extremely grateful for the genuine kindness and care given to Marilyn and her family over her final months as she journeyed home. A celebration of Marilyn's life will take place on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Faithbridge Church in Spring, Texas at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Faithbridge Church in Marilyn Ashby's name. Faithbridge Church had a very special place in her heart. Marilyn may have left this world but her legacy lives on in the lives she has touched and the love she shared. May she rest in eternal peace. Donation Link for Faithbridge ChurchShow more
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