On the morning of 23 February, days before her 90th birthday, Marilyn Wright (née Phillips) left this world in comfort and peace at St. Joseph’s Hospice Resource Centre in Sarnia. Marilyn was predeceased by her loving husband Norman Wright, brother Burt Phillips, and parents Robert and Lavena Phillips. Beloved by her children Debra Wright (Michael Hurry), Sandy Butler (Paul Butler), and Steven Wright (Dale Zentner), grandchildren Jessica (Andrew), Samantha, Dylan (Katherine), Jamie, Brandon, Kerry (Frances), and Jesse (Olia), and sister- and brother-in-law Sharon and Pat Tighe, she will be dearly missed.
Marilyn was born in Glen Rae, Ontario on the 27th of February 1934. During her childhood and youth, she lived in Forest, Ontario prior to marrying Norm and moving to Huron Heights. Her growing family moved to Sarnia in 1960, where she resided until her final days. When she was young, her fun-spirited nature and infectious laugh earned her the nickname “Gig.” With her vibrant sense of humour, others would be giggling as much as she was. One episode from her athletically gifted youth became a favourite bit of family lore. Participating in an all-Ontario track-and-field event in London, Ontario, she nearly missed the chance to compete when a trip to the city’s downtown took longer than expected. Running several hundred yards from the bus stop, she arrived at the starting line just in time to join the race. Without breaking stride, she set off on a record-breaking run, earning her team the 1948 Jr. Girls Track Championship. Throughout her life, she expressed a great flair for home decorating and enjoyed golfing, doing crossword puzzles, and playing bridge and board games with friends whose company she cherished. She was known for preparing wonderful meals in a welcoming spirit for every family occasion. Never forgetting a birthday or anniversary, the cards with heartfelt messages she sent were always warmly received. Those who knew Marilyn commented often on her kindness, wit, warmth, and generosity.
The family would like to thank Dr. Orla MacSweeney and her palliative-care team. Cremation will take place, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sarnia Lambton, and St. Joseph’s Hospice Resource Centre of Sarnia Lambton (cheques only at the funeral home, please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.