Marilyn T. Donnelly
Marilyn Therese Donnelly, 76, of Denver NY, was called to her heavenly home to join her beloved daughter Kimmy and parents on September 28th, 2023. Born to Martha and Maynard McNally on March 3rd, 1947, she grew up in a household in Mineola, NY filled with laughter, love and music with her siblings Kathie, Tom, Bud, Rita, and Susan.
Later, she would marry her high school sweetheart and the love of her life Robert on September 10th, 1966. In their 57 years of marriage, they would move to Brentwood NY, Roxbury NY, and then settle in Denver NY and raise four children Kimberly, Robert, Joseph, and Jennifer. Marilyn was a devoted and loving mother, daughter, wife, sister, friend, aunt, and Nana. She was a second “mom” to many other neighborhood children as well. Everyone knew that they could count on Nana/ Mom to help them anytime they needed it. Marilyn touched many lives with her kindness, love, and compassion.
Marilyn’s greatest achievement was her family. She was the matriarch, the “go to” person for all things. If she wasn't going to school events for Kayla, she would be listening to hunting stories from Zachariah, going to the movies, and playing games with Shamus and Tanner, catching up with Robbie or camping with friends. Her pride for her family was felt by everyone. She was very active in the Catholic Church where she served the Lord in many ways. She taught Sunday school, would work many dinners, and volunteered for all activities regarding the church. She was also very active in the Relay for Life organization after her precious daughter Kimmy passed away. She was a respected and beloved member of the community.
Marilyn's compassionate and caring personality led her to the career of nursing. She devoted over 50 years to helping others both physically and spiritually. She strived to be the most caring, compassionate, skilled, professional, and loving nurse that she could be whether it was in the ER, OR, working on the ‘floor” or as Director of Nurses. She gave every job her all and her high expectations and overall love for nursing was beneficial to everyone she encountered. From Candy Striper as a teen to Director of Nurses later in life, she excelled in every position because of her passion for helping others.
Marilyn is survived by her loving husband Robert, her son Robert (Helene) Donnelly, her daughter Jennifer (Zac) Clark, son Joseph (Autumn)Donnelly, son in law Jack Riggi, granddaughter Kayla Clark and grandsons, Zachariah Clark, Robbie Donnelly, Shamus Donnelly, and Tanner Donnelly. She is predeceased by her parents Maynard and Martha McNally and daughter Kimberly Riggi.
Calling hours will be Tuesday October 10, 2023, from 3-6 at Hynes Funeral Home in Margaretville. There will be a Nursing Nightingale ceremony at 5:30 during the calling hours. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday October 11, 2023 at 12 noon at Sacred Heart Church, Margaretville with Father Paul officiating.
Our family will be starting a Marilyn Donnelly Memorial Nursing Scholarship at Margaretville Central School for a senior going into nursing that exemplifies mom’s principles and character. If you would like to donate to the fund in lieu of flowers, please contact Jen Clark @ zacnjen@hotmail.com.