Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Gaye Monroe was born on November 11, 1952 in Cincinnati, Ohio and passed away in Naples Florida on May 25, 2021. She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Steven Monroe, and her stepchildren Kim Whitener (Kerry) and Mark Monroe. She leaves three grandsons Nick Hurshman, Nathan Hurshman, and Keegan Whitener.

Marilyn retired in 2014 after working 26 years for Springfield, Missouri Public Schools as a Teacher and then Elementary School Principal. She earned a reputation for giving 100% to everything, and she never slowed down.

Marilyn grew up in a very challenged home environment. Marilyn received a bachelor’s degree in religious education from Central Bible College, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education and specialist in administration from Missouri State University. Instead of giving up she rose to the top and spent many days giving back to students, friends, and family.

Marilyn was very serious about improving the lives of children. In early 2009 she founded the organization “Cents of Pride” in Springfield, Missouri. She along with the help of many others collected items and donated them to a “store” at Weller Elementary. Students were able to purchase these items using “Pride Bucks” earned for positive behavior. Marilyn won both Teacher of the Year and Principle of the Year in her tenure. She was a 2012 Missouri Distinguished Principal honoree.

Marilyn loved running, walking her Yorkie Bogie, golfing, and most of all tennis. She earned the nickname “Wheels” for her speed on the court. When Marilyn moved to Naples with Steve, they found great happiness making many new friendships in the Quarry community that lasted the rest of her life. The family would like to thank all of Marilyn’s friends, for the joy they brought into her life.

The family will host a life celebration in her honor at Hodges Funeral Home 525 111th Ave N, Naples, Florida on Friday May 28, 2021 at 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to New Horizons of SWFL PO Box 111833 Naples, Florida 34108 Memo: Cents of Pride.