In loving memory of
Marilyn Eileen Whitacre

• February 20, 1946
• -
• June 29, 2022

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Marilyn Eileen Whitacre (nee Streng), age 76 years, went to be with Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior, on June 29, 2022, following a lengthy illness. She had resided the last 14 years with her spouse in The Villages, FL.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, Ralph Whitacre, her son, Richard Steven Whitacre of Leesburg, FL, her daughter Julie Ann (Rick Tertel) Maturen, and grandson Greyson Tertel, of Missoula, MT. She is also survived by her sisters, Donna Jean Black of Flushing, MI and Marie Lucina Crete of Essexville, MI and her brother, Larry Arthur Streng of Fenton, MI. Also, many cousins, nieces and nephews, and in-laws.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, the late Arthur and Cleopha Streng of Maple Grove Twp., MI, her brothers Ronald and Michael, and her sister Elizabeth “Betty Ann” Ruddy.
Marilyn was born on February 20, 1946 in Owosso, MI and graduated from St. Michael’s High School in Maple Grove Twp., with the class of 1964. After graduation, Marilyn moved to Saginaw, MI to find employment. It was there that she eventually met her husband, Ralph, whom she married on February 15, 1980. They later relocated to Troy, MI and resided there until their retirement move to The Villages, FL in the summer of 2008.
Marilyn had many friends from the neighborhood and from the church. And, she was always trying to help others who were in need. Prior to the disabling condition, she enjoyed playing golf, bowling, socializing during a card or board game and spending time with her family. Above all, Marilyn had a strong abiding faith in her creator.
Per Marilyn’s wishes, her mortal remains are cremated. There will be a Celebration of Life ceremony at New Bethel Community Church in Summerfield, FL at 5:00 PM on Friday, July 29th. Anyone wishing to make a charitable contribution in Marilyn’s honor, we ask that you kindly consider the Cornerstone Hospice in The Villages, FL or the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, with her family’s thanks.
“ . . . . he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” – John 11:25 KJV. “I look forward to our heavenly reunion one day. As you know, my arms are not long enough to manifest the amount of my love for you. Rest in God’s peace. Amen.” – Ralph