Marilyn Warner

Marilyn Hawthorne Richardson Warner, lovingly known as “Mimi,” of Essex, Connecticut, passed away peacefully in the Essex Meadows Health Center, October 16, 2026 at the age of 92. She was surrounded by her loving husband, Stuart and their three children, Heidi, Alison and Stuart.

Born on March 28, 1934, in Huntington, New York, she was the daughter of Mary Louise Forse Richardson and Niven Richardson. Mimi attended Northport High School on Long Island, graduating third in her class and excelling in mathematics.

She followed her passion for caring for others by attending St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Manhattan, where she earned her Registered Nurse degree. After graduation, she served at St. Luke’s Hospital and later at Newport Hospital, while her husband was at sea on a Navy destroyer, all while raising their infant daughter, Heidi. After moving to Essex, she devoted many meaningful years as a volunteer in the Hospice Unit at Middlesex Hospital.

On January 22, 1955, Mimi married the love of her life, Stuart Warner. They shared 71 years of devoted and joyful marriage, building a family and a lifetime of memories together.

Mimi was a gifted and accomplished seamstress, sewing and smocking her children’s clothing for many years. She was also skilled in knitting and crewel work, creating treasured handmade pieces for her family. An athlete at heart, she was a lifelong long-distance swimmer—from childhood through her years on the Masters Swim Team in Oakville, Ontario. She also loved basketball, roller skating, skiing, and daily walks.

Her faith guided her throughout her life. She served on the Altar Guild at St. Jude’s Anglican Church in Oakville, Ontario, and later at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Essex, Connecticut. She was also a long-time member of the Essex Garden Club, contributing her time, talent, and friendship to her community.

Mimi is survived by her beloved husband, Stuart; her three children, Heidi, Alison, and Stuart; seven grandchildren—Christopher, Courtney, Amelia, Rosemary, Marlee, Maddie, and James; and five great-grandchildren—Kieran, Kennedy, Georgia, Charlotte, and Nash. She was predeceased only by her parents.

Mimi will be remembered for her mischievous spirit, active and athletic nature, intelligence, fun-loving heart, patience, compassion, unwavering support, and her gift for being a true and loyal friend.

Memorial plans are to be determined. Contributions in her memory may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church in Essex, Connecticut.