Marilyn Essie Woodruff

Marilyn Essie Woodruff, 74 of Bremerton, Washington returned to her heavenly home on February 6, 2019. Marilyn was a beloved wife, devoted mother, doting grandmother, cherished daughter, faithful sister, loving aunt and friend to many.

Marilyn was born June 22, 1944, in Rigby, Idaho to Leslie and Essie Howe. She was raised and attended schools in Rigby. On November 1,1963, she married David A. Woodruff in Rigby, Idaho. Their marriage was sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on March 29, 1980. They were blessed with 9 children. Even though where they called home often changed; whether it be: Idaho, Connecticut, Oregon, Arizona, Wyoming or Washington, Marilyn was always able to make it an adventure.

Diverse in her careers, Marilyn was a small business owner, seamstress, craft teacher, craft artisan, medical transcriptionist, bookkeeper, secretary, caregiver and a cleanroom technician. Of all the different positions Marilyn held, what brought her the most joy and fulfillment was her role of Mother.

The focus of Marilyn’s life was her family. She was very kind, loving and had a warm heart. She took great pride in her children and grandchildren. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Marilyn was a woman of many talents. She was skilled at crafting, sewing, scrapbooking, baking, quilting, and gardening. Marilyn was an avid genealogist and the family historian. She was often found creating handmade gifts for her family and friends. Marilyn had a servant heart and was always willing to lend a hand to others. She repeatedly exhibited her grit, adaptability and determination; along with a witty sense of humor.

Marilyn will be truly missed. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, David Woodruff; 9 children: Helen (John) Huntsman, Michael Woodruff, Paul (JoAnn) Woodruff, Adam (Falicia) Woodruff, Rebecca (Mark) Lowe, Christina (James) Foley, Matthew (Betsy) Woodruff, Melissa Schaefer, Stephanie (Kenneth) Bensel; 24 grandchildren; siblings: Marsha (Darrell) Felch, Richard (Joyce) Howe, Scott (Tammy) Howe; brother-in-law, Warren (Emile) Woodruff and best friend of 70 years, Cheryl Taysom.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Essie Howe.

Memorial services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 14910 Central Valley Road Northwest, Silverdale, Washington 98383. Services will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2019. In honor of Marilyn, family and friends are encouraged to wear her favorite color purple to the service.

Arrangements by Edwards Memorial, Funeral Homes, Chapel and Crematories. A graveside service will take place under the care of Eckersell Funeral Home in Rigby, Idaho on June 15, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at the Rigby Pioneer Cemetery. Interment will follow.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Franciscan Hospice House for their loving care. Donations can be made in Marilyn Woodruff’s name to CHI Franciscan Hospice House online at https://www.chifranciscan.org/franciscan-foundation/donate-now or by mail to Franciscan Foundation, P.O. Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401-9836.