Marilyn (Chadwick) Reilly, 96, of New Harbor, passed away on the morning of Feb. 1.
Born on July 16, 1920 in Pemaquid Beach, she was the daughter of Earnest and Zina M. Chadwick. They were a musical family, Marilyn often played instruments and they sang together. She loved music and attended many local dances with her brothers. She could play music by ear and even taught herself how to play the keyboard in her 80s.
She met the love of her life, John M. Reilly at Bristol High School and married him on Dec. 24, 1941. They celebrated 75 years of marriage this past year. They raised four children, John, Rosemary, Jean and Eileen on the family farm in New Harbor. Marilyn worked hard on the farm while raising her children, and upon retirement she and John traveled and stayed many winters in their camper in Florida. During this time she especially enjoyed line dancing and making new friends wherever they went.
Marilyn was young at heart, full of fun, humor and positivity. Everyone who met her, young and old, were drawn to her because she took a real personal interest in them. She had a big heart and could converse easily with strangers. She shared her unique wisdom, humor and kindness with all whom she met.
When she and John returned to living in Maine fulltime, she spent many hours lovingly knitting hats and mittens for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and for children’s related charities in the local elementary school. She would say, “I don’t knit for money, I knit for people.”
Marilyn was predeceased by parents, Earnest and Zina M. Chadwick; four siblings; and beloved son, John Reilly Jr.
Survivors include her loving husband, John M. Reilly; children, Rosemary Kelsey and husband Paul of Walpole, Jean McGinn and husband Michael of Yarmouth, and Eileen Reilly and husband Bill Fieweger of Searsport; John Reilly Jr.’s widow, Carol Reilly of New Harbor; grandchildren, Paul A. Kelsey Jr. and wife Heidi of Bristol, Alison Kelsey-Bryant and husband Jay of Walpole, Juliet Kelsey-Holmes and husband Justin of Hallowell, and Sarah Murphy and husband Eric of Bucksport; and great-grandchildren, Lucas, Emily, Brandon, Abby, Aidan, Grace, Helaena, Graeff and Elias.
A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at a date to be announced.
Donations may be made in Marilyn’s name to Caring for Kids in Bristol, PO Box 412, New Harbor, ME 04554.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
