Marilyn F. Bennett, 80, Marion, passed away at 5:35 am on Monday, March 4, 2024, in her home. She was born in Hamilton, Ohio, on Saturday, March 13, 1943, to Helge and Mary (Settles) Victorsen. On June 17, 1967, she married David Duane Bennett, and they shared 43 years together before he passed away.
Marilyn graduated from Worthington High School (Ohio) in 1961; Nyack College (B.A.); Marion College (B.S. in Education); Saint Francis College in Fort Wayne (M.A. in Education); and Ball State University (Special Ed degree). She taught 33 years with Marion Community Schools, 1 year in Huntertown, Indiana, 5 years in Florida, and 1 year in Illinois. In 2005, she was listed in the award book, "Who's Who in Education". She was a member of Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) and lifetime member of the National Education Association. She was also awarded the Most Volunteer Hours In Grant County by the ISTA in 2023.
Marilyn was a member of Unity Christian Church in Marion, where she sang in the choir, was on the praise team, and taught Sunday school. She also served faithfully on the mission board and was a representative for the ARK Christian Ministries in Converse. She was actively involved in the Easter Pageant for several years. She was a member of Merri Homemakers 4-H Club and Creative Hands Garden Club of Marion. She also worked with the Robotics Club in Matthews, providing food and helping with students.
Marilyn loved to read, sing, make crafts, and create floral arrangements. She traveled often in many states and often visited the girls and their families. She will also be remembered for her kind heart, sweet spirit, love for laughter, and her many friendships.
Survivors include her daughters, Tambra Lynn (Eric) Williamson of Crown Point and Tonya La'Nee Bennett of Marion; grandchildren, Bella L. DiGia, Jonathon Williamson, and Lyla Williamson; sister-in-law, Beth Ann Rigney of North Vernon; beloved cat, Maggie; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Richard Victorsen; sister, Marcia Ann Brosey; and her companion of 10 years, Gary Rice.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Marilyn's life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Keith Greenlee officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Unity Christian Church, 140 N. Pennsylvania St., Marion, IN 46952 or The ARK Christian Ministries, 3522 N. 1000 W.-27, Converse, IN 46919.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn, please visit our floral store.
