Marilyn Lue Hennessee (nee Kirkendall ) passed away on December 27, 2022. She was born June 11, 1947 in Kokomo, Indiana, to Robert “Chop” and Clara Kirkendall along with her twin sister, Carolyn Sue (Ted Salsbery).
She married Samuel Hennessee on December 28, 1969, after meeting at the Rose Bowl in 1968. With Sam, she created a loving home for her three boys, Dr. John Hennessee (Kelle), Samuel Hennessee II (Melissa), and Joseph Hennessee (Mollie). Later, she became a devoted and caring Meme to her eight grandchildren: Thomas, 14; Kate, 13; Lauren, 11; Maddie, 11; Avery, 9; Charley, 6; Eli, 6, and Louisa, 4. Being a Meme was her prized role. She cared for her extended family, which includes nieces (Ann Rounds, Kalee Barnes, and Keenan Pruett), nephews (Jeff Salsbery and Jeremy Pruett), and great nieces and nephews. She loved her family and was very proud of all of them.
In her free time, Marilyn loved to travel. She was also passionate about art, and she volunteered as a docent at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Marilyn studied and had a successful career as an X-ray technician. She was a member of Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel. She served as a member of the Brebeuf Mother’s Association while her sons attended. She enjoyed gardening and baking. She took great pride in her home and went out of her way to make visitors feel welcome; her home was always festive and inviting around the holidays.
Marilyn was blessed with several lifelong friendships. Marilyn will be missed by everyone she loved, and she is loved by so many.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 2, 2023 from 2-6 PM at Leppert Mortuary – Nora, 740E. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 4850 E. Main St., Carmel, Indiana. Visitation will also be held on Tuesday morning at the church beginning at 10 AM.
In lieu of flowers, Marilyn asked to have donations made to Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, Cornerstone Lutheran Church, or Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art).
To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.leppertmortuary.com.
