Marilyn Kirkland's Obituary
Marilyn Kirkland, 80, passed away peacefully in Fairview, Ohio surrounded by the love of her family on Dec. 18, 2023. She was born April 2, 1943, in Irwin, Pennsylvania to Kenneth and Hortense Barner.
She is survived by daughter Carol (Phil) Simonski, James (Jess) Kirkland; grandchildren Lauren (Brandon), Anna, Jordan, James, Victoria, Harleigh, Tristan, Joel, Bethany; and great grandchildren Seamus, Lilah, Caden, Scarlett, Lillian, Carter and Kinsleigh.
Marilyn brought Carol and James Kirkland into this world, and could take them out of this world too, had she so decided.
Through the years she developed lifelong friendships as a member of both The Order of Eastern Star, The River Chapter,
and Grace Presbyterian Church in Lakewood.
A woman of great mental strength, she taught us all so very much. Those lessons included how to thrive in difficult times, how to mind your manners in church (aka how a well-manicured hand can keep any child in line), how to make the best wilted lettuce salad and how to make the best Christmas cookies, even if they didn’t last till Christmas!
After living a full life in brisk Ohio, Marilyn made the tough decision to leave her family and move to Florida where she enjoyed a better climate and donated her time as a school crossing guard. She made friends wherever she went and was loved by everyone she encountered. Whenever possible, she spent the holidays back home with her family. We were all fortunate to spend time with her this year.
She was firm but fair and if only she could have used that red Tupperware spatula in her last battle, she would have outlived us all.
She will be missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service will be held on January 20, 2024, at 1:00 pm. The service will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church; 1659 Rosewood Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107.
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