Longtime Marion City Schools teacher Marilyn Smart Gilbert passed away Wednesday, October 10, 2012 in Marion following a period of failing health.
Born April 10, 1928 in Glendale, Ca., the former Marilyn Jean Cory was the daughter of the late Fred C. and Helen (Bierly) Cory.
She spent her childhood in Akron, then moved to Marion with her family. She was a 1946 graduate of Marion Harding High School and a 1950 graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University.
On Jan. 26, 1951, she married John E. Smart in Marion. He preceded her in death on Dec. 2, 1979. She then married Howard R. Gilbert on June 25, 1983, in Marion. He passed away on June 11, 1997. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Fred C. Cory Jr., in 2011.
Mrs. Gilbert, who was proud of her service as a teacher, taught fourth and fifth graders at the former Glenwood and Vernon elementary schools. She then taught sixth grade at Baker Middle School from the school’s opening in 1969 until her retirement in 1991.
She was a member of the Garden Path Garden Club since 1950 and a member of Epworth United Methodist Church. Mrs. Gilbert loved all aspects of history, with her interests spanning the Civil War to the British monarchy. She also delighted in piecing together her family history.
Mrs. Gilbert’s family, which also included her beloved dog Rusty, was her focus in life. She is survived by three children: Stephen Smart of Phoenix, Ariz.; Scott (Dione) Smart of Columbus; Sheryl (Kevin) Hall of Marion; and five grandchildren, Sarah (Leonard) Oliver of Phoenix; Tracey Smart of Charleston, S.C.; Tricia Hall and Brett Hall of Marion; and Rachel Smart of Columbus.
Services honoring her life will be observed privately by her family at the Epworth United Methodist Church, with Rev. Daniel Kiger officiating. Burial will follow in Marion Cemetery.
The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marion County Humane Society.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Marilyn’s family and your private condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
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