Marilyn J Herbert

Marilyn J. Herbert of Sarasota, Florida, peacefully passed away on August 8, 2025, following complications from cardiac arrest. She had courageously lived with Parkinson’s Disease for six years. Marilyn was a vibrant, joyful woman whose radiant smile could light up any room. She was the heart of her family and beloved in her community for her extraordinary ability to bring people together through the countless events and activities she organized with such grace and skill.

Born on October 21, 1945, in Lynn, Massachusetts, to Corrine and Webster Opie. Marilyn lived her life with intention, creating a beautiful harmony between family, work, community, and faith. Marilyn treasured the time spent with her loved ones, especially during graduation ceremonies and family gatherings that brought everyone together. Christmas held a special place in her heart—she delighted in filling the living room with presents that spilled out from under the tree, creating magical moments of family togetherness and meaningful celebration.

Marilyn, a Boston University Journalism graduate, demonstrated exceptional leadership as a Director at two major Richmond hospitals, where she managed and inspired teams of volunteers. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she played a pivotal role in leading various organizations and was instrumental in founding and guiding multiple clubs that fostered a passion for literature and community engagement.

For over 25 years, Marilyn was a dedicated member of the American Association of University Women, where she served as vice president of the branch in Bon Air, Virginia. Through AAUW, she and her husband Jim enjoyed more than 20 years of wonderful friendships in the branch’s Gourmet Group, creating memories that lasted a lifetime.

After Marilyn retired from the Healthcare field, she and Jim moved to Longboat Key, FL. Marilyn began volunteering at Mote Aquarium, where she continued to serve her community for over a decade.

Since 2010, Marilyn has been a faithful member of Saint Patrick Catholic Church, where she found a spiritual home and community. At Saint Patrick, Marilyn joined the Knights of Columbus Women’s Auxiliary, where she discovered deep fellowship and joy in her work, particularly through the annual fashion show. Together with Jim, she lovingly served the parish community by preparing Sunday morning coffee and donuts and cheerfully selling raffle tickets at Friday fish dinners.

Throughout the years, Marilyn embraced her children’s menagerie of beloved pets—cats, dogs, gerbils, rabbits, and fish—welcoming each one into their home with warmth and care.

Marilyn leaves behind a family whose hearts are heavy with loss but overflowing with gratitude for the incredible woman who enriched their lives through her boundless love, inspiring example, and unwavering devotion. Lovingly known as “Nana” to her grandchildren, Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, James (Jim) Charles Herbert; her cherished daughters Heather Herbert Drummond (Don) and Lindsey Herbert Branyon; her beloved son James (Jay) Charles Herbert Jr. (Emory); and her treasured grandchildren Charles Frazer Branyon Jr., Katherine Bibb Branyon, Leighton Adair Herbert, and James Charles Herbert III. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, caring mother-in-law, and adored Nana whose family will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34241, on Saturday, September 06, 2025, at 9:30 AM.

A reception will follow at Laurel Oak Country Club, 2700 Gary Player Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240.

Her remains will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Drive, Arlington, Virginia 22211.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Marilyn’s name to the Michael J Fox Foundation For Parkinson's Research: [email protected].