Marilyn was born on January 28, 1946, in Newton, New Jersey, to the late Katie (Hobbel) and Jacob Schaffer. She was the loving sister of Katherine (Schaffer) Pflugfelder, Charles Schaffer and D. Judith (Schaffer) Mueller. Marilyn was predeceased by her brother, John Schaffer and her brothers-in-law, Bruce Mueller and John Pflugfelder, Senior. Marilyn also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and their children.
A lifelong resident of New Jersey, and graduate of Newton High School, Marilyn remained close to her roots throughout her life. Her presence was a source of comfort and strength to those around her.
Marilyn worked as an Administrative Secretary and dedicated the past 30+ years of her professional career to Deacon Homes in Sparta, New Jersey. Marilyn enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and dedicated her time to her family, her church, shopping and reading. Marilyn could always be counted on to support her extended family by attending sporting events and school activities, attending social events for church or her favorite charity, and being the ever-ready carpool driver. Her willingness to give to others before thinking of herself will remain her legacy to all who knew and loved her.
Marilyn was a faithful member of the Panther Valley Ecumenical Church for over 50 years. Her devotion to her faith and her church was apparent to all who encountered her there, whether it was teaching Sunday School, preparing food in the kitchen, getting ready for a rummage sale, serving on the board or just enjoying the fellowship of her friends and fellow church members. Her pride in her service to her church was never spoken aloud, but apparent in her joy of sharing her experience and faith with those around her.
Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday, May 13, from 5 pm to 8 pm at Smith McCracken Funeral Home, located at 63 High Street, Newton, NJ. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 14, at 10 am, at the funeral home with interment to follow in Tranquility Cemetery located at 19 Maple Lane Road, Green Township, NJ.
Though she has departed this earthly life, we take solace in the belief that she now rests in peace. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. In the spirit of her giving nature and desire to serve, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to one of her favorite organizations, Peace by Piece (peacebypiecenj.org) in Sparta, NJ or to Panther Valley Ecumenical Church (panthervalleychurch.org)
“Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Proverbs 31:31
