Marilyn C. Eisenhardt

Marilyn Cogan Eisenhardt, aged 89, passed away on November 15, 2024, in Alexandria, VA. Born on April 17, 1935, in Titusville, Pennsylvania, Marilyn pursued her passion for languages, earning degrees from Wooster College and the University of Michigan. She dedicated her career to education, initially teaching French in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before advancing to become the Foreign Language Coordinator for the school system. Later, Marilyn moved to Alexandria, VA, where she taught French to deaf and hard of hearing students at Gallaudet University.

Marilyn was a vibrant and witty individual who cherished her family and friends deeply. She was known for her independence and strong will, traits that endeared her to many. A lover of cats, Marilyn adopted and cared for numerous abandoned and feral cats throughout her life. Her home was a reflection of her love for art, adorned with her own paintings and drawings. Marilyn also enjoyed sewing, creating beautiful clothes for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren's dolls.

Active in her community, Marilyn was involved in various organizations including Welcome to Washington, International Woman's Club, and several volunteer groups. She was also a past member of St. Paul's Alter Guild, a lay reader at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, a docent for the Folger Shakespeare Museum, and a member of the "Vestal Virgins" Social Club in Ann Arbor.

Marilyn was a devoted member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor and St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Alexandria. Services will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Alexandria on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with a gathering afterward in the Norton Room. Additional services and the burial of ashes will take place at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor, Michigan, next summer, with the date to be determined.

She is survived by her daughters Elaine Valenzano, Barbara Eisenhardt (Tiffany Wahl), and Lisa Daniel (Ted); grandchildren Stephanie Herlihy (Scott), Lauren Fritts (Matthew), and Courtney Demihovsky (Alex); niece Barbara (Kitten) A. Barnes; nephew Rusty A. Barnes; and seven great-grandchildren. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Robert G. Eisenhardt; parents Mabel J. and William G. Cogan; sister Joyce C. Barnes; and son-in-law Terry Valenzano.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Animal Allies at animalalliesva.org or to the World Languages program at Ann Arbor Public Schools, c/o Amy Osinski, 3700 Earhardt Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105.