Marilyn JoAnn

Walsworth

Marilyn JoAnn Walsworth, age 85, of Mears, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026.

Marilyn was born on December 4, 1940, in Hart, Michigan, to Edward and Frances (VandenHeuvel) LaPorte. On November 27, 1971, she married the love of her life, Donald Walsworth, with whom she shared over five decades of love, family, and cherished memories.

Marilyn embraced the quiet beauty of everyday life. Whether lost in the pages of a good book, carefully crafting detailed cross-stitch pieces, or putting together a puzzle, she found peace in life’s gentle moments. Yet her greatest happiness was always found in the company of her family. From cozy campfire evenings to unforgettable road trips filled with laughter, she cherished every journey they took together. Marilyn was the steady heart of her family, wrapping everyone in her boundless warmth, patience, and love.

Throughout her working years, Marilyn shared her warmth and kindness with everyone she met. For 15 dedicated years at Power's Clothing Store, she took genuine joy in connecting with customers and helping them find just the right outfit. She later spent many happy years at CountryMark's Garden Center, surrounding herself with plants, flowers, and friendly faces. Yet of all the roles she held, none brought her more fulfillment than being a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother—lovingly watching over them, being present in their daily lives, and watching them grow.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Donald; her children: Brenda (Terry) Birkman, Mark Walsworth, Donna Duggan, and Tammy (Mike) Parcella; her sister Ruthann (Noel) Beyer; sisters-in-law Joyce Ensign, Kristy and Marcia Walsworth; her grandchildren: Michele (Tim) Cunningham, Michael (Teresa) Birkman, Nikki (Josh) Graham, Cassie Duggan, Tara (Lauren Westbrook) Parcella, and Trevor Parcella; and her great-grandchildren: Tenley and Brynlee Amstutz, Sophia, Emersyn, and Salustio Birkman, Gavin Brennan, Bryce Dube, David Brennan, and Ethan Hubbard. And many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Frances LaPorte; her brother, Joseph; her sister, Janet; her parents-in-law, Anna and Walter Walsworth; her brothers-in-law, Dick, Kenny, and Jim Walsworth and Bill Ensign 1st; son-in-law Greig Holdridge.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Weare, Michigan, with Fr. Phil Sliwinski presiding.

Following the Mass, a luncheon will be held at St Joseph’s Parish Hall for family and friends to share memories and celebrating Marilyn’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Marilyn's honor may be given to St. Joseph's Church, Mears Methodist Church and Oceana Council on Aging.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com