IRVINGTON—Marilynn E. Hess, 96, died July 26, 2025.
She is survived by her daughter, Karrie; and two grandsons, Trevor and Liam.
She was predeceased by her husband, John; they had been married for 64 years.
Marilynn was born and raised in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and is a graduate of Dickenson College, where she received a four-year scholarship and majored in foreign languages and education. By all accounts, she had a wonderful college experience with lifelong friends, sorority dances and almost being expelled for smoking in the dorm (times have changed). Upon graduation she worked for the Philadelphia National Bank in their foreign exchange department and, among other duties, was the translator and interpreter for the bank.
She then moved to the Washington, D.C. area where she became the office manager of a law firm and secretary to a senior partner. Following that, she became a dental assistant and managed the dental office near her home. A colleague set her up on a blind date … and a year later she and John married.
Upon marriage, Marilynn became a full-time homemaker. Her family, home, community and schools were her life. Making things beautiful mattered to Marilynn and she tended her home with care. She also taught herself various types of handiwork, such as cross-stitching, knitting, quilting, calligraphy and decoupage; she shared her love of these crafts with her daughter.
Marilynn loved to entertain and guests were delighted to receive the table decorations and favors which she designed and handcrafted. Her community involvement included such activities as volunteering at Rappahannock General Hospital for 22 years, volunteering at Historic Christ Church in Weems, and supporting her daughter’s various academic and extra-curricular endeavors.
Marilynn and John designed and helped construct their dream home in the Northern Neck. They had no architect and most of the design resulted from Marilynn’s ideas and creativity. She also enjoyed decorating their home, tending to the yard and her beloved azaleas and watching the birds which were devoted visitors to the many feeders on the property. Once their home was completed, she and John traveled extensively.
The family is thankful for the dedicated care and concern provided by the nurses and staff at Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marilynn’s name to your favorite charity.
