Obituary
Marianne Baxter (Abston), age 83 of Orlando, FL passed away peacefully, in her home, on March 31, 2020. Marianne had numerous health issues that ultimately led to her death.
Marianne was born on August 31, 1936 in Mayersville, MS. She was the daughter of the late James Leo Abston and Myrtle Anne Younger. Marianne grew up in Mississippi and Alabama. She attended Phillips High School in Birmingham, AL. She often spoke of her time spent in Alabama, which she loved so much.
Marianne worked in the hospitality industry for many years. In the 1970’s she took cake decorating classes. She could make and decorate the most deliciously beautiful cakes. She made many wedding cakes for family and friends. Later in life she worked at the Clermont Academy of Dance, where she was the receptionist and resident grandma. She loved all the children and they loved her. She would braid their hair and alter their costumes. She later worked for Agricarts in Mascotte, FL, in sales. She could sell ice to an eskimo.
Marianne, along with her five children, moved to Clermont FL in 1970. In Clermont she was very involved in the community. She was a “room mother” at the elementary school. She led Brownie, Girl Scout and Cub Scout troops. She met and married her husband Ray in 1973. She and Ray were instrumental in starting the girls’ softball league. She remained very involved in the community for over 30 years. She was very well known and loved by many.
Marianne was well known for her wonderful cooking. Everything she made was delicious. People often requested her baked goods. She loved cooking and always wanted to feed those that she loved.
Marianne loved her family and always wanted to get them together to celebrate all the holidays and birthdays. Every celebration was a big deal. She always went over the top. She wanted to make sure that everything was perfect. She made everything special.
She is survived by her husband, of 46 years, Raymond Baxter, son Shelby Fillingim Jr. of High Springs, FL, daughter Kathy Rewis (Randy) of Batesville, AR, daughter Lynn Collins (Mark) of Lakeland, FL, son John Fillingim (Julie) of Manitowoc, WI, daughter Julie (Betty) of Orlando, FL. Three step daughters, Raye Baxter, Leah Veillette, and Krista Depue all of Phoenix, AZ. Her two nieces Linda and Jeanne of Louisiana. Her grandchildren Jessica, Emmy, Shelby III, Tyler, Josh, Mariah, Leslie, Kaleb, Jacob, Josh and 8 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her father James L. Abston, her mother Myrtle Young and her sister Barbara Voss.
There will be a celebration of Marianne’s life at a later date.
