Marilyn Kay Ensign, 85, of rural Cass County, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 27, 1939, in Bedford, Indiana, Marilyn lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion to her family.
Marilyn graduated as Salutatorian of the Oolitic High School Class of 1957, exemplifying her dedication to excellence from an early age. She went on to have a distinguished career as an executive secretary, providing invaluable support to top executives at Northrup Aviation, Hamilton Cosco, and Reliance Electric.
A gifted and accomplished pianist and organist, Marilyn shared her talents throughout her life. She accompanied the Lewis Cass Jr. Sr. High School Choirs for several years and worked as assistant to the Athletic Director at the school. For over 50 years, she served faithfully at her local church, playing the piano/organ and accompanying the choir and special music performances.
Marilyn’s heart for service extended beyond her music. She volunteered for several years at Birthright of Peru, where she also served as Director, dedicating her time and care to helping others. Additionally, she volunteered as Administrative Assistant to the Executive Director of the Grissom Air Museum, contributing her skills and time to a cause she believed in.
She also loved to write poetry, expressing her thoughts and feelings through heartfelt and creative words. Marilyn cherished family vacations to the beach, especially the Gulf Coast, where she found joy and peace in the beauty of the ocean and time spent with loved ones. Above all, she was a wonderful, loving, and selfless wife and mother who went to any length to ensure her family had the best. Her unwavering devotion and care were a testament to her generous heart and deep love for her family.
Marilyn was married to her beloved husband, John Ensign, for over 66 years. She is also survived by her son, Gregory Ensign, and his wife, Jolene; her cherished grandchildren, Jessica LaSalle and her husband, Anthony, Vanessa Ensign, and Christopher Ensign; her precious great-grandson, Calvin LaSalle; and her dear sister, Becky Duncan, and her husband, Jerry.
She was predeceased by her parents, William and Shirley Jones, her sisters, Cathy Simmonds and Nancy Campbell, and her sons John Jr. and Todd Ensign.
Marilyn was known for her warmth, her devotion to her family, and her unwavering faith. Her legacy of love, music, poetry, service, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Memorial Service will be held on January 25, 2025, at Walton Christian Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. A dinner will be provided immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Birthright of Peru in Marilyn’s memory.
Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace and will forever hold her close in their hearts.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn Kay (Jones) Ensign, please visit our floral store.
