Marilyn Sue Montoro

Marilyn died from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). For nearly two years, she fought this terrible disease without complaint, showing remarkable strength and courage.

Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 58 years, Ray Montoro, loving sons Philip and Craig (Erin Sayer), and granddaughter Maxine.

Marilyn will also be sorely missed by her three sisters and brother, as well as by her four nephews and two nieces. She is predeceased by one sister and one brother.

Marilyn was born November 10, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Lynn and Mary Jane (Perdue) Canfield, the oldest of their seven children.

She began her teaching career in 1966 in San Antonio and then continued in Columbus, Ohio. In 1988, Marilyn joined the McKinney Independent School District in Texas, where she taught several subjects during 21 years at Caldwell Elementary, Valley Creek Elementary, and Scott Johnson Middle School. In the early 1990s she earned a master’s degree in special education from Texas Woman’s University.

Marilyn demonstrated her deep dedication to her students in ways that reached beyond the classroom: she was a sponsor of the National Junior Honor Society and volunteered each year at the local Special Olympics track meet.

After her retirement in 2008, Marilyn continued to actively contribute to the Plano community. For 15 years, she volunteered at Plano’s Interurban Railway Museum, giving tours and, during COVID lockdown, transcribing historical documents at home. Marilyn also spent many years helping out at the Haggard branch of the Plano Public Library.

Marilyn loved reading and enjoyed participating in several book groups. An avid bowler, she competed in women’s and seniors’ leagues. She also practiced Jazzercise weekly for more than 30 years.

Everyone who knew Marilyn Montoro will miss the beautiful smile and generous heart of this friendly, cheerful, cat-loving soul. She left us far too soon.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will take place on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 2 PM till 4 PM at the Arapaho United Methodist Church, 1400 West Arapaho Road, in Richardson, Texas. Donations may be made in Marilyn’s memory to the ALS Association.

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