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Marilyn Helen Ellingwood, 84

Marilyn Helen Ellingwood, of Williamstown and Bradenton, Fla. passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Feb. 6, 2025.

She was born on June 16, 1940, to Robert Peoples (1972) and Helen Doyle Peoples (2007) in Medford, Massachusetts.  A graduate of Medford High School in 1958, she then proceeded to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where she graduated in 1962 with a degree in English Education. 

Marilyn married Jim Ellingwood (1985) in 1963 and moved to Williamstown shortly thereafter.  There, she raised her family and worked for the William College Alumni Relations Department until retiring in 2004. 

She spent her retirement in Bradenton, Florida.  Among her many interests, Marilyn was a voracious reader, avid bridge player, skilled knitter, accomplished gardener and experienced tennis player, often imparting her knowledge in these activities to those looking to learn.  

Marilyn is survived by her three sons: Jay (Beth), Kevin (Beth), and Brian (Scott); her four grandchildren Meg, Whit, Toby and Finn; and her brother Robert Peoples.   A memorial for her will be held in Williamstown in Spring 2025. 

Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
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To Marilyn's family and everyone else who loved her, please accept my heartfelt condolences on Marilyn's passing. It was my privilege to work with her at Williams College for a decade. As a colleague, she is described perfectly in the obituary. (Plus she was a great source for the inside story!) May you find the support you need in your faith, family, and friends.
from: SALLY HOLLANDon: 02-21-2025
My condolences to Marilyn’s family. I just learned of your loss. I worked with Marilyn and became a friend in the four years together at Williams. She was helpful to everyone.
from: MaryJane Maloneon: 02-20-2025
I am a member of the Williams Class of 1968. I served as class agent, vice chair, and for 3 years as Chairman of the Alumni Fund. Marilyn was an outstanding member of the Alumni Fund office and was proud to consider her my friend. She provided me with immeasurable support during my many years working with the fund. It was always a pleasure to see her in Williamstown. She, most likely unknowingly, helped my son Jim decide to attend Williams (class of 97). He came to Williams in the fall of 1992 for his "obligatory " interview. He was a senior at Taft and heading to Princeton. He came to an alumni fund dinner that I hosted. He was seated at the far end of a long table from me with Marilyn and an older alum from the early 50. I have no idea what the conversation entailed. He spent the night in the freshman dorms with some Taft friends. The next day as we drove him back to Taft, he said "Can I withdraw from Princeton and apply early decision to William." I did tell this story to Marilyn. My condolences
from: on: 02-20-2025
Dear Jay, Kevin, and the entire Ellingwood Family,

So saddened to learn about the loss of Marilyn. She was always gracious, smiling and kind whenever I interacted with her in the Alumni Relations office. And she always had a kind word for my Dad, Rev. Sinclair D. Hart who, also as an alum, worked with her quite a bit. May you all carry on her loving legacy.
from: Sally Hart Petersenon: 02-20-2025
I am so saddened by this news. Marilyn was both a fabulous support and a great friend during my years as a Class Agent and a Vice Chair of the Alumni Fund, and thereafter through her retirement. My sincere condolences to her family. May Marilyn’s memory be a blessing always.
from: Alissa Balloton: 02-20-2025
Jay, Kevin, and Brian, We are so sorry for the loss of your mother. She was a wonderful woman and we all enjoyed visiting her in Williamstown.
With sympathy,
The Barretts
from: The Barrettson: 02-20-2025
I am truly sorry for your Mom's passing. She was always so gracious and fun when I came to your house to plan a dive trip with your Dad.
from: Gene Lepesqueur on: 02-18-2025
Dear Jay, Kevin and Brian,
Your mom and dad were longtime friends of the Allen family.
With love and deepest sympathy,
John and Jane Allen
from: John and Jane Allenon: 02-17-2025
My condolences to the whole family. I am glad I got to see her in North Adams at coach Ellingwood’s induction to the schools athletic Hall A fame.
May thoughts and prayers
Bret
from: Bret Thompsonon: 02-16-2025
Marilyn was a kind remarkable woman . My condolences for your loss.
from: Pam Rosascoon: 02-16-2025
Condolences to you all. Peace and love to you.
from: Kimberly Ruthmanon: 02-15-2025
I am saddened by the loss of another longtime good friend, Marilyn Ellingwood. My sympathy to all her loved ones.

Judy Bleezarde
from: Judy Bleezardeon: 02-15-2025
So saddened by Marilyn's passing. We were great friends for a very long time and I will continue to miss her. My sympathy to her loved ones at this difficult time.
from: Judy Bleezardeon: 02-15-2025
Love to you all at this time. Loved your mom!
from: Kim Brown on: 02-14-2025
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