Marilyn Grace Whittington Henke

UPDATE:  A Memorial Service will be held FRIDAY, April 22 at 6:00 P.M. at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Akron, OH 44333.

Marilyn Grace Whittington Henke, 88, of Bath, Ohio passed away on January 10, 2022 quietly in her sleep surrounded by her sons and daughter-in laws.

Marilyn was born on October 25th, 1933 to Herman and Grace Whittington in Ansonia, Ohio. After graduating valedictorian from Ansonia High School in 1951, she studied Home Economics and Elementary Education at Miami University where she met the love of her life, Robert L. Henke. Robert and Marilyn wed in 1955 and were devoted to their four sons, Jeffery, Christopher, Dru (Robert) and Ryan.

Marilyn taught elementary school for over 20 years, ending her career teaching as a third grade teacher with Richfield Revere Public Schools. Marilyn loved working with children and supporting their learning, especially the “ornery” ones. Parents and colleagues appreciated her patience and perseverance in figuring out what each child needed to be successful. Even after retirement Marilyn frequently volunteered as a tutor and delighted in sharing gifts and talking with any child she met.

Anyone who spent time with Marilyn knew her love of family, her dedication to her faith, and her creative endeavors. Her home was a beautiful place of welcome, tastefully decorated, filled with delicious smells of everyone’s favorite foods. Marilyn always gave of herself to make others feel special and loved. Marilyn appreciated wit and enjoyed hearing and telling a good story; her sense of humor and laughter brought people together. Marilyn worshiped and attended service at The Chapel and found fellowship as a volunteer for the care team. She teamed with her husband, Bob, to support and advocate for those with mental illness, through volunteering with NAMI and always being there to help anyone with a need. Charity toward others, crafting, spoiling her dog, and finding good deals at tag sales were lifelong hobbies for Marilyn.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents, siblings, her husband Robert, her son Ryan, and her grandson Evan. She is survived by her sons Jeff (Becky), Chris (Sue), Dru (Kathy), her grandchildren Justin, Sarah, Silas, Tristan, Rowan, Eli and Zoe, and her great grandchild Noah, all of whom miss her deeply.

Donations can be made to nami.org.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333.