Marilyn Turner

1942 – 2023

Marilyn Turner peacefully departed this life on December 29, 2023, in Ogden, Utah at the age of 81. She was born on March 9, 1942, to Arnold “Arnie” Anderson and Ruth Bengtzen. She married Tom Turner on February 8, 1964, marking 59 years of marriage. Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband, Tom Turner, and their daughters, Pam Witkowski (husband Sandy Witkowski) and Jenny Jackson (husband Matthew Jackson). Also, her four granddaughters Augie Witkowski, Madeline Witkowski, Isabeau Witkowski, and Emily Jackson as well as a circle of dear friends. Marilyn is also survived by her three sisters Linda Christensen, Denise Ogburn, and Susie Martin. She was preceded in passing by her brother Victor Anderson.

Dedicating over 35 years to the Weber School District in Ogden, Utah. Marilyn’s early professional years were spent at Bates Elementary School, where she served as a teacher’s aide. Her contributions included decorating classrooms, assisting teachers, leading the “Challenger” spelling group, and teaching ceramics during summer breaks. She was always the first person teachers would call on to help with and plan art projects. She left Bates Elementary to work as the secretary at South Ogden Junior High. In the latter part of her career, Marilyn worked as a head secretary at Bonneville High School, where she became known as “Mrs. T” by all of the students. “Mrs. T” was not just for her last name of Turner, but referring also to all her gold rings and necklaces that she wore daily.

Outside of her professional life, Marilyn expressed her creativity through art. She painted oil paintings of flowers, roses being her favorite, and landscapes. She often used roadside snapshots as inspiration. She also found joy in quilting, participating in various quilting classes and groups, doll making, and crocheting afghans. Marilyn found joy in crafting and involved her daughter’s and their friends in summer craft projects.

Fondly referred to as “Grammie” by her four granddaughters, Marilyn held a special place in each of their hearts. She was always worried whether her granddaughters were home safe and had a good meal. In the last years of her life, her devoted husband, Tom, served as her constant caregiver and companion. Prior to Tom taking care of Marilyn, they enjoyed traveling in the states and even internationally including the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, and Costa Rica. They were always up to go out for a good meal with friends or family. A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be scheduled in the near future to honor the legacy she left behind.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Condolences can be sent to Tom Turner at Tom_Turner6@aol.com.