Marilyn Lee Lessin

Marilyn was born October 28, 1931, in Long Beach, California, the daughter of the late Lyle Webster Stultz and Mary Young Stultz. She grew up in Southern California surrounded by extended family and developed a lifelong love of music, especially the violin.

She attended Pepperdine University on a music scholarship and graduated in 1954 with a degree in Elementary Education. While in college she met her husband, Don, who was a Marine stationed at Camp Pendleton. They soon married and began their life together in the Los Angeles area, where they raised their seven children and built a lively and loving home.

In 1972 the family moved to Cary, North Carolina. During those years Marilyn devoted herself to her family while also serving as a religious education teacher, working as a public school teacher, and holding a leadership role in TOPS International.

In 1992 Marilyn and Don moved to Southport, North Carolina, where they quickly embraced their new community. They were active members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and enjoyed taking classes at the community college together. Marilyn especially loved connecting with and serving others. Over the years she became involved with the Southport Woman’s Club, the Southport Garden Club, the Southport Historical Society, and the Sacred Heart Ladies Guild.

Marilyn will be remembered for her devotion to family, her strong faith, and the many friendships she formed through her church and community activities.

She is survived by six children: Bill Lessin (wife Valinda), Tom Lessin (Joye), Jim Lessin (wife Gail), John Lessin (wife Pam), Kathy Beaulieu, and Jerry Lessin (wife Wendy); 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Ray Lessin; her son, Robert Lyle Lessin (wife Adele); and her sister, Janet Lethers.

A Funeral Mass will be held at noon on Friday, March 27, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Southport, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marilyn’s honor to Friends of the Library – Southport & Oak Island, NC at https://folsoi.org/ or to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.