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Marilyn Jarrett Obituary

Marilyn Jarrett, beloved mother, grandmother, and State Senator died Friday, March 10, 2006 at the age of 67. Marilyn was born to Don "Spencer" and Irene Black of Snowflake, AZ and was honored to serve in the Arizona State Legislature for more than ten years. At the time of her death she was the State Senator for District 19 in Mesa, AZ, where she had lived for over twenty years. Her leadership role at the time of her death was Senate President Pro Tempore and Co-Chairman of the Healthy Forest Initiative Committee. She also held the leadership position of Majority Whip both in the House of Representatives and the Senate during her tenure. She also served as the President of the National Organization of Women Legislators in 2005. She was the only legislator in Arizona history to be voted "Legislator of the Year" twice. This was to be her last term in the legislature as she was running for the office of Justice of the Peace. She is widely recognized for her dedication, elegance and unending desire to do the right thing. Marilyn is survived by her five children, LeAnn (Robert) Arganbright, Gary (Susan) Bond, Shelli (Michael) Stathis, Tiffani (Kelly) Mullenaux, Alicia (Sean) McBride, and fourteen grandchildren, and siblings Nona (James) Hansen and Ned (Virginia) Black. She was preceded in death by her parents, Don Spencer and Irene Black, and her siblings, Don Spencer (Bobbie) Black Jr., Colleen (Paul) Hollingsworth, and Ervin Black. Of all her many accomplishments, the one she loved most was raising her children. She could sing, dance, cook, and sew like no one else. She was a true friend and cared deeply about people she knew, as well as those she would never meet. Marilyn will be deeply missed by her family and the many people who truly love her. A viewing will be at the State Capitol Rotunda on Sunday, March 19, 2006 from 4:00 to 7:00P.M. Funeral services will be Monday, March 20, at the Mesa Citrus Heights Stake Center at 2549 N. 32nd St., Mesa, Arizona, 2006 from 10:00-11:30 A.M. A viewing will be held prior to the service at 8:30 A.M. She will be laid to rest at the Mesa Cemetery immediately following the service. The Bunker Family Funeral Home, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201, will make final arrangements. Donations can be made to the Marilyn Jarrett Memorial Fund at any Bank of America. The family greatly appreciates the outpouring of love and support from everyone.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 16, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Marilyn Jarrett

Not sure what to say?





Paul & Jeanie Lint

February 15, 2015

Even though we did not know you personally we shall always remember you for the great lady you are.

Connie Dow

June 26, 2006

You were my boss, you were my dear friend, you were my confidant, you were admired by so many and respected by all. You are forever embedded in my heart. I miss you every single day...thank you for the visits in my dreams & making it so that I can now write this message. I love you my friend.

Senator Linda Gray

April 9, 2006

It has now been a month since your passing. You are still very much missed; the joy you shared and how you encouraged those around you. Because of our love for the Lord I know we'll see each again. May God comfort those who loved and respected you.

Janae Maher

March 23, 2006

Dear Family

I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your Mother. I want you all to know I am thinking of you. My Aunt Marilyn always reminded me of my own Mother, her sister, Colleen. I'm sure they are together.

Much Love to All,

Janae

[email protected]

Linda McGowan

March 20, 2006

"Thou art my hope, O Lord God..."

Psalm 71:5



As you put your trust in the Lord to see you through this time, may you find assurance in His Word, strength in His presence, and comfort in His love.

With Deepest Sympathy

Dave and Jo Lene Gibb

March 19, 2006

Marilyn was a gracious lady, an example to those she came in contact with, a champion of people's rights, a stalwart in the Church, and a person who will be dearly missed. She set a high bar and will be remembered by our family as a loving, caring, and dear friend. 'Til we meet again....

george weisz

March 17, 2006

Marilyn was true to her principles and would fight with all the muster she had for whatever she thought was right. Some called her pretty tough, but I think it could best be described as firm but fair. But what endeared her even more to many of us who worked around the Capitol and with her on a daily basis was that she also always listened, and she was willing to change her position if facts or constructive criticism warranted it. Even more importantly, she would treat everyone with respect, a respect which she earned from all with whom she came into contact. She also wanted us all to appreciate our heritage. We talked at an event at Tovrea Castle, and she couldn't say enough about the importance of preserving, and appreciating, our heitage. She wanted so much to leave a world better for our children and our children's children. Marilyn stood tall in so many ways.

Diana Clay O'Dell

March 16, 2006

It is an honor to have known such an honorable lady.



Senator Jarrett began her legislative tenure in the House of Representatives. Her kind nature and gentle demeanor always set her apart. The last time I saw Senator Jarrett, she paused by my office door in the House basement and said "I miss this place...it seems like home." I assured her that House Majority Research Staff missed her too.



Senator Jarrett gave new meaning to the words "elite lady." We pay tribute to you, Senator! God Bless You and Yours!

Gordon and Susan Porter

March 16, 2006

We express our deepest sympathy to you and yours and want you to know how much we loved and respected Marilyn.

Duane Belcher

March 16, 2006

My Deepest Sympathies to the family of Senator Jarrett: Her loss will be felt by many. Her service to this state exemplifies what all of us should strive to be.

Rob McCauley

March 16, 2006

Our prayers are with your family during this very difficult time.

Nadine Walker Larson

March 16, 2006

I am Marilyn's first cousin. She was a delight to know, and I'm sorry we didn't keep in touch over the years. My sympathies to her family.

From the Staff of Bunker Family Funeral Homes

March 15, 2006

We wish to extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time.

mayor phil gordon

March 15, 2006

may god bless marilyn's family and watch over you as he is now watching over marilyn

Betty Gomez

March 15, 2006

God Bless the Jarrett family in this most difficult time.

Sherrie French

March 14, 2006

Dear LeeAnn

I didn't realize the relationship. Please know that I am thinking of you during this time. It is never easy to lose a parent, especially a Mother. My thoughts are with you.

Georgia Luster

March 14, 2006

Dear LeeAnn

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom. My sincere sympathy goes to you and your family.

Ella Johnson

March 14, 2006

My God be with your friends and family...

Art Hamilton

March 14, 2006

It was a joy to know Senator Jarrett.She was a good public servant and an even better friend.

Sam Polito

March 13, 2006

Many things can be said of Marilyn, but, above all she was a kind and gentle women. My world will be dimminished with her not in it.

Janice & Ben Goldstein

March 13, 2006

Our hearts are so sad. Marilyn was a great lady and we will miss her.

State Senator Jack W. Harper

March 13, 2006

We have a unique opportunity to preserve the memmory of Marilyn forever. Her efforts to keep criminals off of the streets, longer, was unmatched in the legislature. I propose that we expand the Lewis prison and name the new unit after our beloved colleague. She deserves the honor and we will miss her.

Art Chapa

March 13, 2006

Our state has lost another great lady. We will miss her very,very much.

Kurt Davis

March 13, 2006

Marilyn Jarrett may be best remembered for her outstanding service as a citizen legislator, but much more important was the way she treated people from all walks of life. She always encountered a friend or a stranger with the same dignity and grace that exemplified her life. A quiet woman of strength and honor, we were blessed to know you Marilyn.

Wendy Baldo

March 13, 2006

I had the privilege of working closely with Senator Jarrett over the last five years and always admired her quiet dignity, class and beauty. I will miss our "girl talks" and her presence in my life.

Beverly Briggs

March 13, 2006

You will be missed. Ride free amoungst the clouds.

Linda Kocar

March 12, 2006

ABATE of Arizona, Yavapai County Chapter extends condolences to the family of State Senator Marilyn Jarrett. Senator Jarrett supported the rights and freedoms of all motorcyle riders, a true advocate for the cause. We will always be gratefull for her support.

ABATE of Arizona

Yavapai County Chapter Secretary

Don Goldwater

March 12, 2006

A soft-spoken lady with unbending principles, Marilyn was a friend to all. An unstinting advocate for the principles espoused by the Reagan Republican Platform, Sen. Jarrett was a beacon of truth for all who were fortunate to know and love her.



Marilyn was a role model that all elected officials would be wise to emulate. A tireless crusader for the values of our Founding Fathers, Marilyn never sacrificed moral or ethical values for either personal gain or political expediency.



Marilyn and I shared a passion for Arizona and its citizens. I will miss her as a mentor and friend and the State of Arizona, especially the Legislature, will miss her leadership and her charm.

Cooney

March 12, 2006

Senator Marilyn Jarrett bestowed a huge honor on our family after C.E. Pep Cooney passed away. She invited us all to the State Capitol to have a special proclamation of his life and accomplishments read on the floor. It is now a permanent part of the record of the State legislature. It was a touching tribute that meant so much to us... and she was so warm and genuine to all of us that day. She is a class act, who will be missed. The Cooney Family

J.D. Hayworth

March 12, 2006

Marilyn Jarrett epitomized the term "citizen legislator." She left the theorizing to others and worked to find solutions and common ground. She never abandoned her common-sense conservative principles, just as she never personalized disagreements with others. She left us too suddenly, and the shock of her sudden loss is difficult to bear. Mary and I ask our fellow Arizonans to keep Marilyn's family in our prayers,and we will carry the memory and example of this remarkable lady in our hearts.

French

March 12, 2006

On behalf of the members of Nomaden MC we are sorry to see her pass. She was a driving factor to help motorcyclists rights. She will be sorely missed. I hope that whom ever replaces her will continue the work she did and help MC's with our rights. God Bless and may you ride that final ride in peace and happiness.

Chuck Essigs

March 12, 2006

Senator Jarrett cared about children and public education.She had a passion for the teaching of reading.She talked many times over the years of how proud she was of legislation that she worked on a number of years ago that provided additional dollars to the Mesa School District that allowed the district to start a Summer reading program.I will miss her smile and her friendship.She demonstrated that you can fight for what you feel is right without being mean spirited .She will be missed.

Roger Hurm

March 12, 2006

It was pleasure to know you. May your family find comfort at this time.

Danita Martinez

March 11, 2006

On behalf of the Modified Motorcycle Association's Phoenix District.

We would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of State Senator Marilyn Jarrett in their time of great loss.

We admire all the years of hard work she gave to our wonderful state and her support of Arizona motorcyclists. All she was and all she gave will be greatly missed.

Danita Martinez

Communications Officer

Phoenix District, MMA-AZ

Donna Porter Gibbons

March 11, 2006

To Marilyn's Children: I was shocked and so sad to hear of your mothers sudden passing. (Relieved though, that she didn't suffer long.) I have such fond and cherished memories of our teen years together and then later when I was lucky enough to get to know all of you when she and I were Real Estate partners in Utah County and you all lived in my Orem neighborhood. You were always her first priority and she was so proud of each of you. She left a great legacy of service.

To Marilyn: You always did want to be first at everything, but this time it is not okay! I am flooded with memories of Snowflake days and then of our renewed personal and business relationship in Utah many years later. I have followed your professional career in AZ and cherish those times we had the opprotunity to visit about the issues that impassioned and launched you into public service. I was so impressed with your energy and excitement as you put your heart and soul in the work you were elected to do.

I will miss you! Thanks for your great friendship for the past 50+ years. I'm not happy to be reminded of my own mortality but am happy for you and for the joy that must be occuring as you are reunited with dear parents and siblings. LUCKY HEAVEN!

Love, Donna Porter Gibbons

Jim Page

March 11, 2006

On behalf of ABATE of Arizona, I wish to extend my most heartfelt condolences to Sen. Jarrett’s family and friends.

She was a great friend to the motorcycling community and a true champion of freedom.

I had the opportunity to meet Sen. Jarrett on several occasions, Although I was definitely out of my element. She always made me feel comfortable and welcome.

Many thanks to her family for sharing such a great lady with us. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Jim Page

State Coordinator

ABATE of Arizona

Jack Lunsford

March 11, 2006

As a lobbyist, I had the privilege of working with Marilyn during her entire tenure in the Legislature, sometimes on the same side and sometimes on different sides of an issue. Lobbyists truly appreciate a legislator's willingness to listen and discuss an issue, and then ultimately identify and understand why a Member takes a position in support of or opposition to his. Marilyn always did that with me. What a lobbyist appreciates most, though, is integrity, and clearly Marilyn had it! One could count on her word. That is the ultimate tribute, and integrity should move anyone to the head of the line for Heaven! I know the angels gave Senator Jarrett ticket number one to meet St. Peter. My thanks, Marilyn, and my prayers.

Rauni Armbruster

March 11, 2006

The Spirit is Eternal. May your Good Work be as Eternal as your Spirit.

May we all make you proud with our decisions & and our efforts. May God send Angels to comfort your family & friends. You will be missed.

Pat Haruff

March 11, 2006

Marily was MY Senator and a class act, a role model for all. I will miss her and Arizona will miss her. She was one of the kindest people I know. Her quiet strength and determination was an oasis in the midst of chaos. I must say I thoroughly enjoyed watching and listening to her on the Senate floor scold her colleagues for their bad behavior more than once.



My sympathies for the family and how fortunate you were to have called her Mom, Grandmother and Friend.

Bern Porter

March 11, 2006

Marilyn was the younger sister of one of my best friends in high school, Ervin Black, who tragically died in an automobile accident when he was a student at the University of Arizona. I named my first born son after him, Marley Ervin Porter.



Marilyn was also one of my sister's (Donna Porter Gibbons) best friends and her classmate in high school. I remember her as being a very tall girl, who looked even taller standing next to my 5'4" sister. She had a winning smile and a knack for making and keeping friends. I am confident that she and her brother, Ervin, are enjoying a great reunion together.



She was a lady of principle and integrity, who served us well. We will miss her contributions to the law making process. She was truly a super woman.

Alma Williams

March 11, 2006

Had I never met her and observed her quiet manner, I'd still have admired her for a single thing she did: She apologized on the floor of the Senate for the egregious remarks of another Senator. That is the epitome of grace. In a world that is increasingly coarse, she will be sorely missed. Thank you, Marilyn, for being a model of ladyship.

Jan Brewer

March 11, 2006

Marilyn was one of a kind. A SUPER Mother, a great friend, and an excellent legislator. She always had time for everyone and a kind word for every situation. I will miss her everyday. My prayers will be with her family who loved her so dearly and who will miss her affection.

Claudia Walters

March 11, 2006

One of my favorite memories of Marilyn was listening to her talk about her grandchildren. Her face just lit up! There was nothing more important. Her love for them radiated from her.

Kelly Moran

March 11, 2006

My condolences go out to Senator Jarrett's family & friends.

As a former resident of Arizona who returned home to Massachusetts after a similar fate fell upon my family's highest hierarchy; I can only say my thoughts & prayers are with you all. She was a great woman who embraced the motorcycle community and supported it's voice. She will be missed immensely by people she didn't know, yet who's life & lifestyle she touched with her passion & sense of commitment.



God Speed Senator Jarrett! RIDE ON

Rep. Mark Anderson

March 10, 2006

Marilyn was gracious, charming, and a person of integrity. She was always positive and had a deep faith in God. She loved Arizona and loved serving the public. Her calm demeanor and dignity will be greatly missed.

Laura Knaperek

March 10, 2006

I met Marilyn in 1994, the year we both ran for the Arizona House of Representatives - and won. I remember voting for the Speaker at the time - Mark Killian. He told me that he was sure Marilyn and I would get along fine because we were so much alike. What a compliment that turned out to be. Marilyn always showed great leadership in a mild-mannered way, but persistantly pressed forward until she reached her goal. I greatly admired her and her willingness to fight for what she believed in. Well done, my friend...well done.

Shane Wikfors

March 10, 2006

My deepest sympathies to Senator Jarrett's family and friends. My family's thoughts and prayers are with her family.



As one of her supporters and constituents, her passing especially hits home. Senator Jarrett was a champion for the culture, the family and the most vulnerable members of our society. She will be sorely missed.

Coach Quelland

March 10, 2006

Senator, we always laughed and smiled with each other and said one day, when you could throw your cane away, that we would dance together. I know you're dancing now. Heaven must have the best dancing music we could ask for, and for sure, better partners than I. So, when I get there, save the next dance for me. We Love you, and we will never stop loving you. You will always be "better than we deserved." Coach Quelland

Robin Scoins, Arizona Family Rights Advocacy Institute

March 10, 2006

Our prayers are with Senator Jarrett's family, friends, and all those who cherished her courage, strength and friendship. She was a perfect role model who gracefully presented her positions, listened with an open mind and always willing to stand up for what she believed in for the good of all. She will be missed dearly, and forever remembered by those she touched, near and far.

Ron Longtin III

March 10, 2006

I and my family would like to extend our condolences to the Jarrett family.Senator Jarrett will be missed.......she was and will be remembered for being a remarkable person.

Len Munsil

March 10, 2006

Marilyn Jarrett was a woman of faith, courage, integrity and principle. She sponsored a bill I drafted in 1998 that allowed communities to better protect themselves from the harmful effects of sexually oriented businesses, and Arizona communities are safer today as a result. Her efforts on behalf of our state have made Arizona a better place to live. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends tonight. She will be missed.

Waldo & Charity

March 10, 2006

Ride Forever Free & In The Wind Senator...Thankyou for your support of Motorcyclist Issues...Waldo & Charity.

Kevin Finn

March 10, 2006

Godspeed Senator. Thank you for your service!

Barbara Ipsen

March 10, 2006

I loved Marilyn!!! She was a good and loyal friend, especially to my son in law, Jeff Groscost. That meant very much to us during diffficult times in the political arena. I have worked with her in our District since moving to Mesa. We, as good friends, constituents, and citizens of Arizona will deeply miss her genuine concern for the state she served dilligently, courageously and faithfully. We loved her as a caring friend. She was an example to everyone she met.

We extend our love and prayers to her family at this, the saddest of times. Barbara and Bob Ipsen

Cathi Herrod

March 10, 2006

A regal, principled, sweet and soft-spoken lady, Marilyn was a dear friend to me and to The Center for Arizona Policy. We shared a passion for unborn children, their mothers and for our families. Marilyn sponsored many of the CAP bills that have passed over the last ten years, and scored 100% on CAP’s annual voting records. In 2003, she sponsored the informed consent for abortion bill, also known as the Women’s Right to Know Act. In 2005, she sponsored the fetal homicide bill, one of the strongest laws in the nation to protect the unborn child. In 1998, she sponsored legislation to regulate the hours of sexually oriented businesses and to allow counties to implement ordinances regulating these establishments. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sen. Jarrett’s family and her legislative family – the legislators, staff members and lobbyists who have known and worked with Marilyn for years. We will miss her friendly smile, cheerful attitude and pro-family voting record.

Von Wilcken

March 10, 2006

I'm so sorry for your lose. I know this is a very difficult time but I want you to know that in my opinion she did serve the Lord and she chose the right! God Bless!

Sparky

March 10, 2006

My heartfelt condolences go out to Sen. Jarrett's family and friends.

She will be terribly missed by the motorcycle community.

Sen. Jarrett, "Thank You" for all you did for the motorcycle community.

Ride Free Forever.

Sparky

MMA Rim Country

Nick Simonetta

March 10, 2006

Senator Marilyn Jarrett defined grace, dedication and integrity. She cared deeply about Arizona, and served tirelessly. She will be greatly missed. God bless you Senator.

April Manchester

March 10, 2006

I want to send my heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of Marilyn Jarrett.



I had the honor of interacting with this great lady for 3 years and will always carry with me the examples she set as a woman of character and an envoy of the people of her state. With quiet strength and graceful dignity Senator Jarrett epitomized Arizona's highest standard of excellence in leadership.



We were all blessed by her spirit and she will be missed.



April Manchester

Immediate Past Legislative Chairman

The American Legion Auxiliary, Dept. of Arizona

Joan Payne

March 10, 2006

Several years ago when my daughter was gravely ill, Marilyn called me at home to offer words of comfort and support. She began crying very hard, so deep was her compassion. When I heard of her passing I immediately thought of that conversation. While her mission here has drawn to a close, I am certain that a new one has begun for such a kind and caring lady.

Joe Garcia

March 10, 2006

I have known Marilyn for many years, from 1995 to the present. She was a wonderful person who will be greatly missed. She was a pleasure to work with and was a person of integrity and always followed through on her word and principles. My thoughts and prayers are with the Jarrett family at this time of unimaginable sorrow.

Corinne Smreczak

March 10, 2006

Dear family of Marilyn Jarrett:

Eternal rest granted upon her and may perpetual light shine upon her. A great Senator she was for our great state of Arizona.

Dave Kopp, AzCDL

March 10, 2006

It was an honor to work with Sen. Jarrett. She was a good legislator, and an honorable and decent person as well. She will be missed at the capitol. My sympathies and prayers are with her family and many friends.

Penny Pew

March 10, 2006

Sen. Jarrett was a lady who was able to accomplish so much during her tenure. She had class and was respected by all who were fortunate enough to have worked with her. She will be truly missed; our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.

Diane Joss

March 10, 2006

May her soul rest in peace ~ and may her family find peace in knowing they will see her again ~ on the other side ~

Glenna Hudson

March 10, 2006

Marilyn,

Thanks for your efforts toward the State Archives building--condolences to your family.

Your special spirit lives on in the memory of so many.

Amanda (Morris) Hasty

March 10, 2006

I had the pleasure of working with Senator Jarrett while I was a lobbyist during the 1997-1999 legislative sessions. She had an amazing personality that was filled with intellect, wit, honesty, integrity and so much more. She will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy goes out to Senator Jarrett's family and friends.

Walt Henderson

March 10, 2006

The motorcycle community will greatly miss an old and active friend. She worked often with the Modified Motorcycle Association and we will miss her. I hope to meet her one day, free in the wind. Walt Henderson, White Mountain District, MMA.

Betsy Gottsponer

March 10, 2006

Her strong voice for perserving Arizona's history will be missed by all of Arizona. A great lady.

Genealogical Society of Yuma AZ

Steve Weston

March 10, 2006

Our condolences and prayers go out to Senator Jarrett's family, friends and colleagues. We will all miss her spirit and determination, her kindness and her strength.



Most Sincerely

Steven L. Weston

State Communications Chairman

The Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona

Anna Perez

March 10, 2006

In this hard time, may strength and peace be found for those who knew and loved Senator Jarrett.

Barry Wong

March 10, 2006

Tribute to a Dedicated Public Servant



State Sen. Marilyn Jarrett served her district residents and the entire state of Arizona with honor and distinction.



I am saddened to learn of the passing of a friend and former colleague. I served with Marilyn when she was a State Representative. We served together on committees and sat near each other on the Floor. I remember she was always engaged in the legislative process interested in solving problems as well as keeping a keen eye on state spending. She was focused and a quick study on issues. I recall one of her first major legislative acts was her bill establishing an auto theft prevention authority. She did not get it passed the first time but through her doggedness and tenacity it was enacted in its second attempt.



However, amidst the push and pull, hustle and bustle, wrangling and horse trading of politics Marilyn was able to maintain her personal sense of civility, composure, gentleness and sense of humor. I always admired her for her professional and personal balance.



I, along with the entire state, will miss Marilyn. My deepest condolences to Marilyn's family; my thoughts and prayers are with you.



Barry Wong

State Rep. (1993-2000)

Phoenix

Joanne Cacciatore, LMSW, FT

March 10, 2006

Personally, I worked with Senator Jarrett very closely. She was a compassionate and caring visionary. I will miss her very much.



On behalf of the MISS Foundation:



The MISS Foundation and its membership sadly mourn the death of Senator Marilyn Jarrett, Arizona legislator and the author of the first MISSing Angels bill in the nation. Senator Jarrett, then in the House of Representatives, worked with MISS Foundation CEO, Joanne Cacciatore, to author the MISSing Angels bill in 2000. She championed in both the house and the senate to ensure its passage.



“Senator Jarrett believed in our cause,” says Cacciatore. “She knew it was the right thing to do…she never doubted for a moment. And for that, I’ll always be in her debt.” Jarrett served the legislature since 1995 and has chaired numerous committees. “One of the things I hope people remember about her is that her commitment to the MISSing Angels bill set into motion a movement across our country to help women experiencing this tragedy. She literally helped to change the world for this woman’s issue,” Cacciatore notes. Jarrett’s vision for this legislation has inspired 15 other states to follow suit just since Arizona’s passage in 2001.



She will be deeply mourned by many.

Mary Palas

March 10, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with the Senator's family at this difficult time. Senator Jarrett was a grand lady who truly cared about the State of Arizona and it's people.

John MacDonald

March 10, 2006

As a lobbyist, I would see Senator Jarrett nearly every day of the legislative session. Everything about her -- her voice, her manner, the dignified way she moved about the halls of power, cane in hand -- was graceful.



On many occassions, her position on a particular issue was the opposite of mine. With some legislators, that justifies a brutal, unyielding fight.



But even at times of sharp disagreement, Mrs. Jarrett did so with a gentle conviction that would uproot even the deepest, most bitter legislative stereotype. I never heard her say one bad thing about anyone, ever.



She was lovely in any sense of the word, and her loss will be deeply felt.

Norma Chastain

March 10, 2006

To the Jarrett family:

My thoughts and prayers are with you durig this time of loss. The Legislature will not be the same without Senator Jarrett's gentle spirit. May your memories help you through the days to come.

Doug Kupel

March 10, 2006

To the Jarrett Family:



We are so sorry for your loss. Senator Jarrett was a true champion of library and archives issues. After her recent speech at Library Legislative Day on March 2, I described her as our "guiding light." Our pathway is now darker with her passing.

Nikki Amberg

March 10, 2006

Sen. Jarrett was truly as beautiful inside as she was out. She always treated people with dignity and respect, even if she didn't always agree with their politics. I will truly miss the special grace and class she brought to every room she entered.

Aaron Jahneke

March 10, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with the Jarrett family. She passed away doing what she loved, which was serving the great state of Arizona.

The Nichols Family

March 10, 2006

We send our deep empathy and prayers to the family and all of her fellow legislators and staff.

Bob Haran

March 10, 2006

Just recieved the news of the passing of this wonderful lady, I know that she is with God now, serving in His kingdom. Senator Jarrett will be missed by all who had the privilege to have known her.

Todd Bradford

March 10, 2006

I had the pleasure of knowing Marilyn Jarrett when I was lobbying at the State Capitol. She was always willing to listen and help however she could if she believed in your issue. Her leadership and character were a great asset to our government and community, and will be sorely missed. My heart goes our to her family and friends over this sad loss.

State Rep. Trish Groe

March 10, 2006

My husband and I send our love and prayers to Senator Jarrett's friends and family. Although my time working with Senator Jarrett was brief, it was a beautiful blessing from God.

Lisa Altenbernd

March 10, 2006

Senator Jarrett,

It was a pleasure knowing you and having the privelage of being able to see the passion and love you had for our state and your constituents. You will be sorely missed by all. God bless you and your family.

Sandra Clark

March 10, 2006

We have lost an elegant lady.



Senator Jarrett was a joy to work with and a delight to be around.



She will be greatly missed.

Kevin Biesty

March 10, 2006

To the Jarrett Family,

Having had the honor of working with Sen. Jarrett during her tenure at the Legislature, I can say without hesitation that she was a woman of honor, integrity, strength and class.

May God keep you and comfort you during this difficult time.

Amelia Sifuentes

March 10, 2006

God Bless her family…Comfort them through their tears, but encourage them to live on through joyful memories.

Melody Hancock

March 10, 2006

To the family - I am very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all to be strong and get through this difficult time.

Lydia Guzman

March 10, 2006

My prayers go out to the Jarrett Family.

Sue Smith

March 10, 2006

I have had the priviledge of knowing Sen. Jarrett for the past 12 years. I admired her greatly and will miss her. God bless you Senator and thank you for serving the people of AZ so well.

Connie Valenzuela

March 10, 2006

I will miss her beautiful smile, her gentle and graceful ways. My deepest condolences to her family.

Kathi Foster

March 10, 2006

I served in the House of Representatives at the same time as Marilyn. Although at times our political views were different we quickly became friends. One time we even did a can can dance on the floor of the House of Representatives! She was a great and fun lady and she will be terribly missed.

Donna Gagnon

March 10, 2006

You made a difference and you will be sadly missed.

John Ore

March 10, 2006

Senator Jarrett was a modern day Arizona pioneer. She was a very strong voice for the Justice Courts and the communities they serve. Every J.P. in Arizona owes her a debt of gratitude. We will miss her voice and her smile.



John R. Ore

East Tempe Justice of the Peace

Vice-President, Arizona J.P. Assn.

jeff latimer

March 10, 2006

GODSPEED MARILYN

Steven Erickson

March 10, 2006

My condolences to the family and my prayers will be with you!

Sandi Grandberry

March 10, 2006

Senator Jarrett was an inspiration to watch in committee and on the floor. She was an example for all women. Her kindness shined in her face.

Mary Aldridge

March 10, 2006

Dear Mr. Jarrett,



My deepest sympathy goes out to you. I first met Marilyn when she served in the House with my husband Don. He had the greatest respect for her and her ideals.



Prayers and sympathy go to you and your family.



Sincerely,



Mary Aldridge

Rob Dalager

March 10, 2006

I worked with Sen. Jarrett at the Senate for the last several years. She was fair, honest, and forthright. The Senate and the State are diminished with her passing.

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