In memory of
Marilyn Ellen Chester
September 12, 1936 - October 7, 2025
Marilyn Chester, beloved wife of the late Ian Hunter Chester (2022), passed away peacefully at Thompson House on October 7, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 89.
Marilyn and Ian shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, and together built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. She was the devoted mother of Sharyn, Carolyn (Carlo), and Douglas (Adele); loving grandmother to David, William, Andrew, and Michael; and cherished sister to Allan Southby (Rilla), with whom she shared a close and lifelong bond.
Born in Toronto on September 12, 1936, Marilyn was the eldest daughter of Alec and Ellen Southby. In 1939, the family relocated to Winnipeg, where she discovered her lifelong passions for reading and tennis. She graduated in 1957 as a Registered Nurse from United College (now the University of Manitoba), and began her career with the Victorian Order of Nurses, where she was known for her compassion and care.
Marilyn met Ian on a double date, and their connection was instant. They married in 1959 and soon after welcomed their daughter, Sharyn. The young family moved to Toronto for new opportunities, eventually settling in Don Mills — Canada's first planned post-war community — where they raised Carolyn and Douglas and created a warm and vibrant family home.
A faithful and active member of her church, Marilyn lived her values through quiet advocacy, community involvement, and strong moral convictions. She had a keen interest in current affairs and social justice, and was never shy about making her voice heard through well-crafted letters to politicians or lively debates around the dinner table. The daily newspaper was her ritual, and family members often received neatly clipped articles on topics she knew would interest them.
Marilyn found great joy in her grandsons, celebrating their accomplishments and encouraging their interests. Her thoughtful greeting cards and annual Christmas newsletters were treasured by family and friends alike, always penned in her elegant handwriting.
She remained especially close to her brother Allan and his wife Rilla. Weekly phone calls and yearly visits brought joy and laughter — and often included a memorable trip to her favourite bookstore, Chapters.
In her final years at Thompson House, Marilyn continued to make a difference. She actively participated in daily programming and championed improvements for fellow residents. Ever the nurse and organizer, she thrived when there was a project to be done.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses, and PSWs at Thompson House for their compassionate and attentive care.
Marilyn will be deeply missed, remembered for her warmth, intellect, resilience, and unwavering love for her family.
Marilyn and Ian shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, and together built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. She was the devoted mother of Sharyn, Carolyn (Carlo), and Douglas (Adele); loving grandmother to David, William, Andrew, and Michael; and cherished sister to Allan Southby (Rilla), with whom she shared a close and lifelong bond.
Born in Toronto on September 12, 1936, Marilyn was the eldest daughter of Alec and Ellen Southby. In 1939, the family relocated to Winnipeg, where she discovered her lifelong passions for reading and tennis. She graduated in 1957 as a Registered Nurse from United College (now the University of Manitoba), and began her career with the Victorian Order of Nurses, where she was known for her compassion and care.
Marilyn met Ian on a double date, and their connection was instant. They married in 1959 and soon after welcomed their daughter, Sharyn. The young family moved to Toronto for new opportunities, eventually settling in Don Mills — Canada's first planned post-war community — where they raised Carolyn and Douglas and created a warm and vibrant family home.
A faithful and active member of her church, Marilyn lived her values through quiet advocacy, community involvement, and strong moral convictions. She had a keen interest in current affairs and social justice, and was never shy about making her voice heard through well-crafted letters to politicians or lively debates around the dinner table. The daily newspaper was her ritual, and family members often received neatly clipped articles on topics she knew would interest them.
Marilyn found great joy in her grandsons, celebrating their accomplishments and encouraging their interests. Her thoughtful greeting cards and annual Christmas newsletters were treasured by family and friends alike, always penned in her elegant handwriting.
She remained especially close to her brother Allan and his wife Rilla. Weekly phone calls and yearly visits brought joy and laughter — and often included a memorable trip to her favourite bookstore, Chapters.
In her final years at Thompson House, Marilyn continued to make a difference. She actively participated in daily programming and championed improvements for fellow residents. Ever the nurse and organizer, she thrived when there was a project to be done.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses, and PSWs at Thompson House for their compassionate and attentive care.
Marilyn will be deeply missed, remembered for her warmth, intellect, resilience, and unwavering love for her family.
Funeral Details
Show location:
Funeral
Church of the Ascension (Anglican)
33 Overland Drive, Don Mills, ON, CANADA, M3C2C3
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Monday, 3 Nov 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Info: In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marilyn Chester can be made to Better Living - Thompson House at mybetterliving.ca (select Thompson House)