I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7
Marian Francis Walsh age 65 of Commercial Point, Ohio passed away peacefully on Monday, April 7, 2025 surrounded by her family and her loyal dog, Russel. Marian was born on October 16, 1959 in Kenton, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Norma Westbrook Jackson. On July 22, 1989 she married Michael J Walsh, who survives. Also surviving are one son Marcus James Walsh of Rockford, Illinois and one daughter Megan Kelly Walsh of Plain City, Ohio. Three grandchildren Jaquan, Malachi and Isabella. She is survived by 2 sisters Martha Jackson Brown of Greenville Ohio, Marjorie Repasz (Gerald) of Sebastian, Florida and one brother Dan Jackson (Patti) of Gahanna, Ohio.
Marian graduated from Kenton Senior High School in 1978, received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Otterbein College, Westerville, Ohio in 1984, and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Dayton in 1993.
Marian had an ability to light up any room with her smile and quick wit even when faced with life’s challenges. Marian loved baking and sharing pies with church groups and family. Friends say she made the best ever peach, apple and pecan pies.
Marian taught in different schools during her teaching career but spent most of her career at Prairie Lincoln Elementary School in Grove City, Ohio. She taught kindergarten, first, second grades and was a literacy coach and English as a second language teacher. Prairie Lincoln became a second home as it does to many who work and learn there. Marian was referred to as “MaMa Walsh” to many who knew her. Marian was always ready to help, give a kind word, give a hug or just be there for students, co-workers and parents. Marian was well known for her ability to make learning fun and interactive. She didn’t just teach the lessons, she taught life lessons. At Prairie Lincoln they have a saying, “Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal”. Marian is greatly missed but we know she is flying high as our beautiful cardinal who gained her wings.
Marian was an active member of St John’s Lutheran Church in Grove City, Ohio. She helped in many different groups including VBS, youth groups, Mexico Mission trips, and small groups. She was also a member of a prayer group called the Jezebels. The Jezebels were a special group of friends who would study and discuss the Bible. They also enjoyed laughing and loved to spend time together. They took many trips and had many adventures together.
Marian devoted the last seven years of her life to caring for her special needs grandson Jay (Jaquan). Marian gave Jay every opportunity to grow and develop with Easter Seals, swimming lessons, horse back riding and many early intervention programs. Through Jay and Russel she met her friend Melissa Beard who loved and helped care for Jay and Russell.
Her care team also included devoted friend Linda Boos, with whom she and Jay enjoyed family trips to Disney World and Hilton Head.
Family and friends gathered to honor Marian on Saturday April 5. A private internment will be held at a future date.
Memorials can be made to either the Mexico Mission or the Youth Ministry at St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3220 Columbus Street, Grove City, Ohio 43123.
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