Marilyn Acker

Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Marilyn lived a life marked by grace, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. She worked for many years as a legal assistant at Mulvaney, Coronato & Brady in Toms River, where her professionalism and dedication were deeply valued. Later in life, she found her greatest joy in caring for her grandchildren, a role she embraced with love and pride.

Marilyn was married to John Merwin Acker, Jr. for 56 years until his passing in 2022.

Affectionately known as “Dear” by those closest to her, Marilyn was humble, kind, and loving. She was stylish, fashion-forward, and young at heart—always bringing warmth and elegance into every room she entered. To say she will be missed by those who loved her is an understatement.

Marilyn was the beloved mother of three children: Susan Acker-Walsh (wife, Tina), Laura Scribellito (husband, Dave), and Nancy Cagno (husband, Paul). She was a devoted grandmother to Lily Cagno, Aidan Acker-Walsh, and Lucas Cagno. Marilyn is also survived by her sister Mary Lou Wendell (Jim), and siblings Peter Herbst and Anne Marie Herbst. She was a loving aunt to Matthew Hudson (Tara) and Steven Hudson (Jacky), Peter Herbst (Sophia) and Kira Herbst, and a proud great-aunt to Miles Hudson and Nora Hudson.

Marilyn was faithful and found comfort in spiritual traditions, blending her Roman Catholic heritage with a love for Lutheran practices. A funeral service will be held at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Manasquan, New Jersey, with a celebration of life to follow at La Dolce Vita in Belmar.

Marilyn will be remembered for her quiet strength, her generous heart, and the beauty she brought into the lives of those around her.