Marilyn B. McElfresh passed away on Sunday, July 8, 2012, in the presence of family and friends, following a 16 year journey with Alzheimer's disease.
Marilyn was born in Columbus, Ohio in 1929, graduated from Bexley High School, and The Ohio State University with a BS in Education.
She was predeceased by her parents, Samuel and Lucille Bukey; husband, Rev. Foster McElfresh; her daughter, Christine McElfresh Judd; and her great-grandson, Silas Michael Carver. She is survived by her sister, Donna B. Jenkin of Oceanside, California; son, Timothy McElfresh (Linda) of Troy, Ohio; and daughter, Rebecca McElfresh (James Armstrong) of Akron; grandchildren, Kirsta McElfresh (James Carver), Aaron McElfresh (Brandi Anders), Evan McElfresh, Adam Judd (Jennifer), Sarah Bowman (Brad), Bethany Judd, Daniel Spehler (Kristi), and Rachel Spehler (Eric Messersmith); as well as 10 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Patrick Judd and her daughter-in-law, Mary Anne Evans (Stan Davis).
As a highly creative individual, Marilyn challenged and enlivened the learning experiences of students in her classrooms in Columbus, Oberlin, Lakewood, Medina, and Rocky River. She took a minor in art as an undergraduate and this background served her many creative endeavors. She delighted in providing beautiful surroundings at home, in her garden, and in her church communities. Following her retirement from teaching, Marilyn and Foster moved to Black Mountain, North Carolina where they enjoyed ten years living in the community of Christmount. After returning to Ohio, Marilyn made her home in Strongsville and finally in Akron.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 12, 2012, at 11 a.m. at South Haven United Church of Christ, 415 Northfield Road, Bedford, Ohio. The Rev. Terry Bartlett and The Rev. Meghan Froehlich will officiate. The family suggests, in honor of her love of color, that guests consider wearing colorful clothing to this service of celebration. At her request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 121 Habitat St., Americus, GA 31709; The Disciples Peace Fellowship, P.O. Box 1986, Indianapolis, IN 46208; or the South East Clergy Association Hunger Center at South Haven United Church of Christ, 415 Northfield Rd., Bedford, OH, 44146. Final internment will be at Christmount in Black Mountain, N.C.
The family is most grateful for the loving care of Dr. Melodie Phillips, the team at Great Lakes Hospice, the caregivers at Arden Courts of Bath, and family friends, Meghan Froehlich and Jennifer Groman who gave lovingly, from the heart, to help Mary Lou transition from this life to the next.
(Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)
Memorial Service
JUL 12. 11:00 AM
South Haven United Church of Christ
415 Northfield Rd.
Bedford, OH, 44146