Marilyn Parkinson Hathaway

With both profound sadness and gratitude for a long life well lived, we the children of Marilyn Parkinson Hathaway, 94, of Deland Florida wish to announce her passing on January 22, 2025. She transitioned peacefully under the care of her family and AdventHealth Hospice.

Marilyn was born on November 14, 1930 in West Chazy New York to Lyle Parkinson and Anne McCooey Parkinson. She maintained multiple residences over the years and enjoyed a snowbird lifestyle for much of her life, splitting time between her beloved cabin in Canastota New York and her home in Melbourne Florida. Mom loved aviation and flying, a hobby she and Dad shared until his passing. She was a lifelong Yankees fan and was able to see them play at their original stadium. Marilyn loved birds, gardening, and arranging flowers. She was creative and enjoyed craft projects and art classes. A devout Catholic, mom was active throughout her life in her local parishes. She was proud to be Irish and fiercely independent, a trait that we are happy to report has carried on through the generations that have followed. Marilyn made friends with ease and took joy in caring for others. Most recently she had enjoyed close friendships with Maria, Arlene, and many others at her residence in Deland where they could often be found “up to no good” along with their unofficial mascot, her beloved dog GiGi. She had an infectious smile and robust laugh that will never be forgotten.

She was predeceased by her best friend and husband of 60 years, Eugene E. Hathaway in 2011; her oldest son Steven E. Hathaway in 2013; daughter-in-law Caren Hathaway; her brother John and his wife Margaret whom she had introduced while working with Margaret at New York Telephone; and multiple other siblings and dear friends.

Survivors include three sons: Jay Walter of Syracuse New York, D.J. (Michelle) of Elko Georgia, and Jeffrey Allen (Jessica) of DeLand Florida; sister Joan Perkins-Smith; niece Carol Arnold with whom Marilyn shared a close bond; grandchildren David, Christian, April, Aidan, Liam, Zane, Lacie, and Vaughn; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family would like to thank the compassionate nurses and care staff at AdventHealth DeLand for the love and kindness shown to Marilyn and her family in her last days. We would also like to thank her friends and home health therapists Carlye Siebens and Amy Jones who kept mom moving and independent until after her 94th birthday. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation to your local Hospice, the American Heart Association, or other charitable organization in mom’s honor be considered.

A celebration of life will be held in DeLand Florida at her family and friends’ convenience. Funeral services and interment will take place this summer in upstate New York.