A Mother’s Love is Unending

Marilyn Margo Worthy was born April 28^th, 1955, in Jacksonville, Florida. Marilyn graced us with her stunning beauty, her fierce tenacity, and her incredible kindness for 66 years. She was the 3^rd daughter born through the union of Selester James Worthy and Jessie Mae Williams. Our mother was an adventurer at an early age. One of her fondest memories was climbing a large tree in the front yard to the awe and wonder of her parents. From that moment, Marilyn excelled in her music lessons-specifically the clarinet. She quickly became the section leader and remained in the “first chair” until her mother’s passing in 1967. After her mother’s passing, they relocated to Akron, Ohio. Marilyn attended and graduated from South High School in Akron, Ohio in 1972. While attending South High School, she not only continued to play clarinet, Marilyn also excelled as a majorette in the South High Marching Band.

Marilyn Margo Worthy was well known for many accomplishments. Her life’s mission and the entire essence of her life were intentionally directed towards raising her 5 children. As a single mother, she let no obstacle stand in her way. Her motto “Don’t take no for an answer!” resonated into every facet of her life. Marilyn attended classes at the University of Akron where she earned her associate degree in social work. Additionally, Marilyn began her career initially in law enforcement as a guard at the Ravenna Arsenal and Patrol Officer for the City of Akron Park Patrol. It was shortly after that time, that Marilyn was one of a select few who passed the exam and trained at the top of her class for the Ohio Sheriff’s Academy with duty at Western Reserve, Case, Ohio for five years. Having accepted Christ at an early age, she had unstoppable faith in God. She would always say there was nothing impossible as long as you have God in your life. She faithfully attended services as an active member of the House of the Lord, Akron. Oh, until the onset of her illness.

Marilyn believed in keeping her children involved in the community as well herself. She was very active with multiple organizations including Girl Scout Troop Leader, PTA, Golf Club, VBS every summer, and volunteered at the Balch Street Community Center. Mom supported many people’s dreams and aspirations undeniably. She attended basketball games, football games, track meets, banquets, births of grandchildren, award ceremonies, dance recitals and military training events. No matter where or what her children what doing, she was always there! The fragrance of her life will always be remembered as vivacious, unconditionally loving, and completely genuine. Our mother’s home was always filled with laughter, music, food, and a place where all were indiscriminately welcome. Her faith and her work continue to live on through the multitude of fond memories of her family, many friends, relatives, and associates throughout the years.

Marilyn Margo Worthy had a relentless spirit! If there was a will, Marilyn would find a way! Not even her illness could stop her from enjoying her life to the fullest. She had unique love and appreciation for all music-especially gospel. However, she also had a sincere love for the music of Kanye West! In her later years, she spent time fishing with “her only son Ted Jr.”, traveling to Baltimore, Washington D.C. and Texas many times. She loved to order from DoorDash, Facebook, and shop online for her children and grandchildren. She had no problem letting everyone on Facebook know it was your birthday and be sure to send 1, 5, 10, or 20$. Her luminous smile and positive personality remained steadfast until the Lord called her home to her heavenly mansion on November 21^st, 2021.

Preceded in death by her parents, Selester James Worthy and Jessie Mae Williams; her beloved and cherished sisters, Rosemary Billie McCormick and Beverly Averett; and precious niece, Angel McCormick.

Her remaining family members are her beloved sister, Brenda J. Worthy; her four beautiful daughters, Atoya Worthy-Mason, Leesha Worthy, Kariba Vinson and Tedette Jones; her only son, Ted Jones Jr.; one daughter-in-love, Miriam Harris Jones; two loving nieces, Latricia McCormick and Sahara Sutton; loving nephew, John Sutton III all of Jacksonville, Fl.; eight wonderful grandchildren, Kinnisha, Kimmisha (Dominick), Kinnon Jr, Elijah, Devin, Emerson, Syriah and Charli; two energetic great-grandchildren: Kerri and Laurie; and an entire host of more than ten nieces, seven nephews, many cousins, precious relatives, and dear friends who were always close to her heart.

She enters her eternal rest while we remain here to carry on her legacy.

Well Done, thy good and faithful servant; Rest Well Mama…Always Forward, Never Backwards.