Marilyn K Moss-Taylor

Born on April 28, 1948, in Mason City, Iowa, Marilyn was the sixth of eight children of Lester and Ann (Rothamel) Moss. She attended Holy Family grade school and graduated from Newman Catholic High School in Mason City. Her passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education with a minor in Physical Education, followed by a master’s degree in Education. Marilyn dedicated 34 years of her life to teaching, and she was immensely proud of her career. Selflessly devoted to each and every student, she greeted them at the door each morning, asking whether they were starting the day with a happy or sad face. If a student arrived with a sad face, she would inquire, “What can I do in class to help you leave with a happy face?” Her commitment to nurturing her students’ well-being extended beyond academics and inspired many, including one student, Chad, to pursue a career in education. She also actively supported her Davenport community by serving on the St. Alphonsus school board.

Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family. She showered her three daughters and grandson with unconditional love, always putting others first and offering support and wisdom to all who crossed her path. Her dedication to her family was boundless; she opened her home to siblings and anyone in need, providing a safe haven and a welcoming port in any storm. Cherishing moments spent cheering for her younger sisters during their basketball games, Marilyn fostered a love for sports and family togetherness that resonated through her household. Blessed with the Moss/Rothamel affinity and love of athletics, she was passionate about sports, though she unfortunately did not benefit from the protections and opportunities provided by Title IX for girls in sports.

In addition to her devotion to family, Marilyn was resolute in her personal and professional convictions, known for her strong will and tenacity. She demonstrated her willingness to tackle new challenges that life sometimes dictated, even roofing her own house. She showed her children the value of learning by exploring new interests together, diving into books, and engaging in exciting experiences. Innovative in her parenting, she often played ball in the house with her kids, laughing off the occasional bump of a volleyball against a lamp. These shared moments of joy and resilience became cherished memories.

She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—nature, birdwatching, and nurturing her beloved garden, particularly her beautiful Morning Glories and Moonflowers. Quiet mornings on her front porch with a cup of coffee brought her immense joy, as did the thrill of watching thunderstorms roll in. Family gatherings during summer fireworks and pool parties filled her heart with laughter. A passionate musician, she often sang and played the piano and enjoyed outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and sports, especially tennis, softball, and basketball. Fondly connected to her heritage, she often spoke of her mother’s family, Volga German immigrants, sharing German phrases that resonated with her roots. Marilyn also had a soft spot for animals, especially her faithful dogs, Heidi and IzzyBizzy.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Lindsay Moss-Taylor of Ames, Iowa, and Ann Moss-Taylor of Davenport, Iowa; her grandson, Noah Moss-Taylor of Ames; two brothers, John Moss (Wanda) and Jerry Moss; three sisters, Dixie Shimak, Patricia Moss-Farnan, and Kathy (Dan) Moorehead; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Leslie Moss-Taylor, her sister Linda Moss, her brother Kenneth Moss, and close friend Ray Whitney, among others.

A funeral mass will be held on November 9, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Mason City, Iowa, with visitation from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery, with a luncheon back at the church where family and friends are invited to share memories and celebrate Marilyn's life.

In the words of her loved ones, the silver lining of loss is a profound appreciation for what we had. As we remember Marilyn, we’ll take comfort in sharing stories, enjoying nature, and perhaps sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee—just as she would have wanted.