LIMINGTON- Marilyn B. Webb (who also went by “Minnen,” “Grammy Ann,” “Grammy Webb,” “G.T.,” “Mumfy,” and'' “G.G”) passed away on July 24, 2021, at her home in Limington, surrounded by her loved ones.
Born on February 2, 1933, in Portland to Fulton W. and Dorothy G. Blake, Marilyn grew up in Limington and excelled at spelling, writing, and basketball, and graduated valedictorian of her high school class. As a student, she was voted most fashionable, most appealing smile, and most likely to succeed.
Marilyn’s upbringing molded her infectious laugh, easy demeanor, and loving nature. After her mother passed away three days after giving birth to her, Marilyn was raised by her grandparents, Eva (“Nanny B”) and Howard Blake. She called herself a “love child from an old folks home,” and never wanted for much thanks to the unwavering support, love, and devotion from her family.
Her ambition was to be a secretary, and after graduating from Westbrook College’s School of Business she embarked on a remarkable professional career doing just that at General Electric, Locust Farm Dairy, Dodge Oil, Bonny Eagle High School, and, lastly, as the Clerk-Treasurer and Tax Collector for the Town of Limington. Community members were big fans of Marilyn, and after 18 years of service, she retired in 2001 with a celebration fit for a queen and was even the Grand Marshall twice in the Limington 4th of July Parade.
We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Marilyn during her 88 years, among them: Every recipe is worth putting your own spin on. Friday night sleepovers with her grandchildren always meant Saturday morning breakfasts with French toast or pancakes topped with whipped cream. Never throw away old pantyhose. Weeding is a form of therapy. A coat of paint (or ten) can fix anything. You can never use enough bleach. Ice cream is acceptable breakfast food. Any event, no matter how big or small, should be celebrated. And, everyone was always, always welcome.
She and her late husband, Raymond Webb, had an entertaining oasis in their backyard, and for 59 years, the welcome mat was always on display. They hosted every major and nonmajor holiday, birthday, anniversary, and milestone celebration by “The Pool,” serving up T’is and T’aint punch, snacks to feed an army, and so much laughter that you always went home with sore cheeks.
She had a life-long love affair with chocolate, music, a crockpot full of baked beans, biscuits, and red wine and was continually in a heated debate with any kind of fruit, vegetable, or remote control. Her favorite saying was, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.”
She is survived by her children and grandchildren whose photos she would share with anyone who would visit - every inch of the walls of her and Raymond’s house was adorned with picture frames: Pamela (children Benjamin and Heather), Rick (daughter Katie), and Dorie (husband Tad, children Meredith, Blake, and Seth). Siblings Verne “Billy” Blake (wife Nadine), Gerald Blake, and John Blake. Sister-in-laws Polly Segal and Margie MacLeod. And, many in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends, and family too numerous to list but not forgotten.
She always had hugs and kisses for her great-grandchildren, Jonesy Day (deceased), Mia Day, Zoe Day, Tristan Millett, Lilly June and Melanie Marie Wurpel, and Cole Spiller. Marilyn’s extended family also held a very special place in her heart. Her grandchildren-in-laws Alf Anderson, Richard Wurpel, Kallie Spiller, Leah Grabarz, and Suzanne Day.
Marilyn is reunited with her husband and favorite dance partner, Raymond Ellsworth Webb Sr. At Marilyn’s final request, there will be no formal funeral service. A public celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please make a donation to the Limington Rescue at 425 Sokokis Avenue.
The family would also like to thank Hospice of Southern Maine who took great care of her, as well as the staff at Anytime Seniors, which includes Ashley, Darlene, Judy, Denny, and Marsha. They fulfilled her wish to stay at home during her final days.
Finally, the family asks that in honor of Marilyn that you laugh and love often, be the loudest cheerleader for your family, and always kick up your heels and dance.
Services and burial will be announced at a later time
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras / Neal & York Funeral Homes, www.mainefuneral.com