Marilyn J. Kelly, age 77, of Groveland, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at home.

She is survived by her sisters, Debra (Rick) Galloway of East Islip, NY, Judith (Neil) de Vries of Geneseo, NY, nieces and nephew, Jennifer (Joe) Reichert, Bridgette (Aaron) Heap, Brandon Cullum, great nieces and nephew, Samantha, Danielle, Clarissa and Dalton…and her beloved dog of 13 years, Magic (Madge).

Marilyn was born September 9, 1948, in Queens, NY the daughter of Matteo and Filomena Curatolo (Mazzillo). Marilyn graduated from Lindenhurst Senior High School and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Pembroke State University in North Carolina and Master's Degree in Education from New York State University at Oswego. Marilyn was a teacher for over 30 years at Central Square Elementary School north of Syracuse, NY. Although Marilyn had no children of her own, she had over 30 students each year for who she upheld the highest standard for educating them. She was considered strict but kind.

Marilyn loved people, dogs, and horses (not necessarily in that order), gardening (tomatoes and flowers), decorating her home, cooking (especially Italian), Long Island (where she grew up), beaches, wine, dining out and dancing. She was considered by most who knew her as a lady with class, dressing well and maintaining her home with style. She loved her family and her friends and always enjoyed her monthly outings with her retired teaching cohorts. She was forever a people person making many people laugh and smile.

In her retirement she returned to visiting the Catholic Church and later expressed her love and belief in Jesus Christ as her savior. She is now in eternity with Him and hopes that you too will find eternal peace through Jesus Christ as your savior.

No prior calling hours. Memorial Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. A date for a celebration of her life to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Marilyn's name may be made to your local canine shelter.