Our mom was a generous and compassionate soul. Her smile warmed you inside. She was truly one of a kind, with a giant heart for her family, friends and all her beloved animals! It was those few simple things that brought her the most joy!
She had more pets than we could ever count and everyone knew that she would take in any creature that needed her love. She always had quite the menagerie. She also loved working in her yard, which if you ever experienced it, was also one of a kind!
She tirelessly took care of my dad, with strength and determination, as he has battled Alzheimer’s for years. She was always there to care for those in need and never met a stranger. All her life, she placed others before herself. We will miss her dearly, but we are thankful that she knew the Lord and that we will see her again one day. Her words, actions, and the many quotes and verses scattered all over her house were constant reminders.
Our loving mother, grandmother & wife went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at the age of 86. Marilyn was born in Johnstown, PA on July 4, 1935 to the late Melvin & Anna Thankful Edmonds. She married Robert Everson Heightley, her next door neighbor, on December 21, 1960. She worked at Council Veterinary Clinic for many years as a groomer, where she was able to share her passion for animals. She loved her family and spent lots of time attending all the activities her children and grandchildren were involved in over the years. She was so proud of each and every one of them.
Marilyn was preceded in death by siblings, Don & Elaine Edmonds. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Robert Everson Heightley, 4 children, Jody (Phil) Sharp, Sean Heightley, Paul Heightley, Carrie (Donnie) Schimmels, 6 grandchildren, Tyler (Gabrielle) Sharp, Tory (Michael) Thomas, Jacob, Grayson & Luke Schimmels, Mackenzie Heightley, 1 great grandchild, Beckett Sharp, 1 nephew, Bob Edmonds, 3 nieces, Janet Goodenow, Kate Heightley, & Jennifer (Peter) Abe. Part of her will live on in each one of us.
We would like to thank all of the Right at Home staff that were such a blessing to my mom and to us these many months, she considered you all friends. And, a big thank you to all her friends who were so faithful to visit and check on her, especially these past few months.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation in her name to the OKC Animal Shelter, Pets & People, The Humane Society or any animal charity of your choice.