Mariellyn Nelson Barnum

Mariellyn Elizabeth Nelson Barnum passed away August 14th, 2024 after battling cancer (and winning) but ultimately suffered a fall which resulted in a severely traumatic brain injury, from which she never fully recovered. She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing. But life has not ended for Mariellyn, she has now begun the eternal portion of her life in Heaven because of her faith in Jesus Christ!

Born and raised in Clearwater, Florida, Mariellyn met her husband, Donald Neal Barnum at the age of 21 and married in 1963. In 1972 the couple bought a home in Tampa, Florida where they have lived for 52 years.

After raising their three children to school age, Mariellyn began a career in Education at Forest Hills Elementary School, where she worked for 26 years.

Mariellyn’s favorite activities in life revolved around her family whether at church together, enjoying home cooked meals, and spending the holidays with all those she loved. Jesus Christ, her family, and her church were at the center of her life and heart.

Mariellyn is survived by her husband of 60 years, Donald Neal Barnum; their three children, Connie Barnum Larkin (Alan Scott Larkin), Chery Barnum Miller (Ronald Dean Miller-Deceased), and Mark Charles Barnum; as well as three grandchildren, Alyson Lynn Larkin-Jones (Samuel Thomas Larkin-Jones), Caroline Rene` Miller, and Mitchell Alan Larkin (Ellice Altman Larkin); and her loving twin brother, Charles Thomas Nelson.

A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 from 11AM to 12PM at Blount and Curry Carrollwood located at 3207 W Bearss Ave, Tampa, FL 33618. The family will receive friends one hour prior starting at 10AM.

A graveside service will occur Tuesday, August 20, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Dunedin Municipal Cemetery, 2400 Keene Rd, Dunedin, FL 34698.