Marilyn Adams

Marilyn Adams of Mansfield died Thursday, September 4, 2008 at Triumph Hospital after an extended illness. She was born in Cleveland, the only daughter to Everett and Gertrude Jones and graduated from Shaker Heights High School where she authored the school fight song, which is still sung today. She graduated from Northwestern University and furthered her studies attending both Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Institute of Art. Marilyn was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority. A resident of Mansfield most of her life, Marilyn, a water color artist, was well known for her love of the art, especially flowers, and was the recipient of numerous awards in flower design competitions at Kingwood Center. Her garden was the envy of the neighborhood. A very outgoing and giving person, Marilyn taught adult education at Mansfield Senior High School and Madison, and also worked as a substitute teacher in all the local school systems over the past 35 years before retiring in 2007. As a member of the First Congregational Church, she sang in the choir for over 20 years and attended Steven Ministries Training. Her love of all kinds of music came early as her father played piano in his own orchestra in Cleveland. Marilyn was instrumental in the organization of the Single Again, Unlimited Singles, and the Sociable Singles groups as an advocate for people living alone in Mansfield. Her other activities included Pleasant Valley Garden Club, a past member of the Sweet Adelines, and an avid Buckeyes, Indians, and Browns fan. Marilyn's wit, humor, laugh, and love of life will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and students who loved her.

Marilyn is survived by her daughter, Kathy L. Roberts of West Pointe, Georgia; sons, Robert Scott Adams, and James Randall Deborah Adams, both of Mansfield; five grandchildren, Adrian Shea Adams, Keli L. Adams, James M. Adams, Robert S. Adams, and Jonathan B. Adams; two great-grandchildren, Trey and Matthew Adams; sister-in-law, Dorothy Jones; and nephew, Gregory Jones. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert S. Adams; and brother, James E. Jones.

A memorial celebration of the life of Marilyn Adams is being planned for a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to A Special Wish Foundation, 109 Maynard Ave., Crestline, Ohio 44827. Wappner Funeral Directors is privileged to serve the family of Marilyn Adams.