Marilyn "Mar" C. Odell

Marilyn Cestaro Odell, 75 of Brewster MA passed away Friday September 30th at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center after a short illness. She was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Mary Cestaro of North Haven CT, and sister Rosalie Verlezza.

Marilyn was a passionate and talented educator serving in Branford, CT for her 37-year career. She held a Bachelor and Master of Science in Biology from Southern Connecticut State University. She also held a 6th year as a Secondary Science Specialist and a 6th year in Administration and Supervision from Southern. Her career teaching in Branford began in 1968 with student teaching at Branford Junior High and continued until her retirement from Walsh Intermediate School in 2006. Throughout her career she served as the Science Department chair, Chairman of the Science Curriculum Council and Professional Development Co-Chair for Branford. She also helped to show the importance of effective science teaching in middle school at the state level, by representing teachers through the Connecticut Science Teachers Association and the Connecticut Science Supervisors Association.

Marilyn’s involvement with science education did not stop with her retirement. She was an adjunct professor at Southern CT State University, University of New Haven and Buena Vista University where she taught future science teachers enrolled in undergraduate and graduate courses and served as CT Science Content Instructor for Teach for America. Marilyn also served as a consultant and instructor for PIMMS (Project to Increase Mastery of Mathematics and Science), Connecticut Science Center and as Director of Educational Programs for the DNA Epicenter.

Marilyn’s love for Cape Cod started with a visit in the late 1960s. She and Colin purchased land in Sheep Pond Estates in 1976 and built the summer house in 1988. She spent many weekends and her summers in Brewster from 1988 on, adding to her gardens, swimming and kayaking on Sheep Pond and entertaining friends and family. Marilyn and Colin moved from Hamden, CT to Brewster full time in 2012. They renovated the house in 2014. Marilyn loved to entertain and continued the Christmas open house tradition with friends and family in Brewster.

Upon their move to the Cape full time in 2012, Marilyn and Colin joined the Nauset Newcomer’s Club. Over the years she enjoyed entertaining and formed lasting friendships with the Wine Group 4 members. She also served on the Board of Directors and chaired the Groups committee for Nauset Newcomers.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Marilyn enjoyed volunteering at the Brewster Ladies Library. She participated in several reading groups on Cape Cod and was always a spirited participant in the group discussion and a favorite host.

Marilyn also loved her Scottish Terriers, ever since her first Scottie Mac, in 1970. She always had a Scottie or three and expanded her involvement with the breed during her retirement. She was an active member of the Scottish Terrier Club of New England, and a member of the Scottish Terrier Club of America. She enjoyed organizing events and auctions and helping Colin serve the crowds at the STCNE Specialty show.

Marilyn’s legacy of strength, leadership and compassion will live on in the memory of her multitude of friends and extended family. She leaves behind her loving Husband Colin Odell of Brewster, Daughter Margaret Schneider, and Grandson Gabriel Schneider of Whitinsville, MA. Marilyn is also survived by her Niece Elise Hirth (Jeremy) and Brother-in-law Anthony Verlezza, both of Charlotte, NC.

Visiting hours will be held on October 18th from 5-7 PM at Nickerson Funeral Home, 77 Eldredge Park Way, Orleans. A memorial service will be held in her honor at North Haven Congregational Church, 28 Church Street, North Haven, CT on Monday October 24th at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Brewster Ladies’ Library Association, 1822 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 or the charity of your choice. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com