March 19, 1941 - February 15, 2013
Marilyn Ruth Stewart Obituary
(Age 71)
Marilyn lost her courageous battle with cancer on February 15, 2013. She entered into the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ surrounded by family members. Marilyn was born in Inglewood, CA on March 19, 1941 to Delbert R. and Bertha A. Billups. She received her BA in Music and Elementary Education from Biola University in La Mirada, CA. Marilyn was married to Ward M. Stewart on January 25, 1964. Together they had 4 children, adopted 3 children and fostered over 200 children during her lifetime. She was a hardworking mother, teacher, business owner and secretary who always put her whole heart into whatever task lay before her. Her beautiful smile, amazing wit, infectious laugh and voice of song lit up every room she entered. If you were to ask her, she would tell you that she loved her family, music, fresh flowers, an outfit that matched, a "good" vanilla shake, newborn babies, a colorful plate of food, cars and of course sports. She became an avid Gonzaga fan upon moving to Spokane, not missing a single game that aired. Her sense of loyalty, professionalism, honesty, humor and heart truly made her a woman of unmatched character.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her mother and father. She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Ward Stewart and her children: Matthew Stewart, Spokane; Melissa Stewart, Susanville, CA; John Stewart, Fresno, CA; Mark Stewart, Spokane; Cara Stewart, Redding, CA; Heather Stewart, Pensacola, FL and Jay Stewart, Redding, CA. She also leaves behind her brothers and sisters: Joanne Mintz, La Pine, OR; James Billups, Paradise, CA; Phyllis Williams, Spokane and Delbert Billups, Tulare, CA. Marilyn is also survived by 8 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 2:00 PM at the Cathedral of St. John, 127 12th Avenue, Spokane. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at the picnic Pavilion in Manito Park at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Marilyn's name to Hospice of Spokane or a cancer charity of your choice.
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