Marilyn Marie Smith

Marilyn Marie Smith, 80, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025.

Born in Chicago to Frank and Elizabeth (Braun) Pfaff, Marilyn grew up on the city’s North Side, where she lived for most of her 80 years. She attended Transfiguration of Our Lord Grade School and was a lifelong member of the parish. Marilyn graduated from St. Gregory High School and later married the love of her life, Edward Charles Smith, with whom she shared 41 wonderful years of marriage.

Marilyn was a devoted mother to her two children from her first marriage to Ronald Fetter (d. 2006): Brian Fetter (d. 2017) and Jennifer Elizabeth (Fetter) Nelson, and son-in-law David Nelson. She was a proud grandmother to Amelia and Charlotte Nelson, who brought endless joy to her life. Marilyn was a cherished sister to Frank Pfaff (d. 2001) and his wife Patricia Pfaff (d. 2017), and a loving aunt to her niece Donna Pfaff and cousin to Richard Gazdik.

Known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family, Marilyn’s presence touched everyone who knew her. She never had a bad word to say about anyone and showed all people kindness, respect, and genuine care. Her gentle spirit, strong faith, and loving heart were especially evident in the way she cared for her family and friends throughout her life. Marilyn was also an animal lover, known for her special affection for her dogs and her family’s dogs over the years.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to a charity of your choice.