Marilyn Jean Irwin Berkey

BERKEY, Marilyn Jean Irwin, 86, of Richmond, Va., went to be with the Lord on July 5, 2015. She was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Dorothea Irwin. She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, William (Bill) Berkey; sister, Carolyn Hammersley; three children, William I. Berkey (Helen), David Berkey and Alice Trivett (Herbert); three grandsons, Matthew Trivett, Nathan Berkey and Andrew Berkey; great-grandson, Matthew Trivett Jr.; two nieces and two nephews.

Marilyn was born and raised in Terre Haute, Ind., and received a degree in music education with special interest in piano from Indiana State Teachers College. Following graduation, she taught elementary school music education in Hoopeston, Illinois, where she met her husband, Bill. After moving to Richmond, she taught private piano lessons to many of the neighborhood children. Later, she became the pianist for Sunday school and organist for her church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Second Church-Christ Scientist, 8791 River Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229. Visitation will be held at 12 p.m. Friday, July 10, at the Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229. Family and friends are invited to a graveside service at 2 p.m. at Greenwood Memorial Gardens, 12609 Patterson Ave., Richmond, Va. 23238. Online condolences may be received at woodyfuneral homeparham.com.