She was born July 18, 1929 to Carl and Helen Gentner; she was a graduate of RJ Reynolds High School class of 1948, where she was active in the Drama club.
Marrrying Isaac Wade Straughn, Jr. on June 21, 1948, they enjoyed more than 50 years together before his tragic death on April 7, 1999. However, God then blessed Marilyn with a marriage to Fred Bauer, her loving and devoted husband for close to 10 years.
Active in a variety of activities, she had a passion for antiques which led to her involvement in the antique business where she owned and operated Reynolda Antique Gallery for close to 30 years.
From her initial business, “Marvels from Marilyn”, to overseas buying trips, her zeal for antiques was eclipsed by her love of friends and family.
Blessed with a multitude of dear friends spanning several decades, they golfed and travelled extensively. From Badin Lake to Grandfather Mountain, she slalomed, snow skied, hiked, watched birds, played tennis, and especially golfed where she rarely missed a 5 foot putt.
In addition to her love of children, grandchildren, and extended family, there was a special place in her heart for the kindly staffs at Forsyth Country Club, Paul’s Italian Restaurant, and Mayberry’s.
At the end of her life she was blessed with loving care from Candace, Lori, Connie, Wayne, and Kay along with the doctors and staff at Brookridge Retirement Community and the Sticht Center.
Marilyn is survived by sisters, Connie Lewis of Charlotte, NC and Gloria Talley of Ararat, VA; daughter, Allison Joy Hall with husband Hank of Atlanta, GA with grandchildren, Jordan Ellis Hall and Lindsay Lorraine Hall; son, Clifton Wade Straughn, MD with wife Sandy of Anderson, SC and granddaughter, Evans Elise Straughn and Fred Bauer of the home.
A visitation will be 6:00-8:00 p.m. on March 1, 2011 at Vogler’s Funeral Home Reynolda Rd. Funeral service will be at Centenary United Methodist Church at 2:00 p.m. on March 2, 2011.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to be made to The Alzheimer’s Association National Office, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18