Marilyn Katz Gevirtz

September 5, 1931 - September 27, 2015 Marilyn Katz Gevirtz, aged 84, died peacefully Sunday, September 27, at her home in Montecito after a lengthy illness. Born in Los Angeles, Marilyn lived for many years in Beverly Hills with her late husband, Ambassador Don Lee Gevirtz. A noted philanthropist, whose passion was education, she moved to Montecito full time, in 1985, where she and her husband endowed the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education at UCSB. Marilyn was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great- grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Leeds (David), her grandaughter, Marisa Peck Johnson (Tyler), and two great-grandchildren, Pearl and Rex Johnson. Her daughter, Julie Warner, pre-deceased her. She also leaves behind her step-children, Carrie Gevirtz Wicks (Craig), and grandchildren Caitlin and Helen Wicks; Susan Gevirtz and granddaughter Clio Gevirtz; and Steve Gevirtz and grandchildren, Harrison, Harland, and Madeline Gevirtz. Marilyn also leaves her beloved niece, Carol Winegred (Michael), and their children. While in Fiji, where her late husband was ambassador, Marilyn started several children's educational projects. Her passion for childhood education found its fullest expression at the Gevirtz Gratuate School at UCSB. She was particularly involved with the Children's Homework Project and Girls Inc. among many other programs. Marilyn supported a host of other Santa Barbara charities with her time and passion. Giving back and trying to make the world a better place was essential to who she was. She felt a deep responsibility to care for family, the larger community we live in, and the world beyond our reach. Marilyn had a special gift for friendship, wisdom, and emotional generosity that deeply touched the lives of so many. As a mentor, friend, and advocate, Marilyn left an indelible impression and legacy, among her family, friends, and the Santa Barbara community at large. There will be a memorial service at Birnam Woods Country Club on Friday, October 2, at 11:00 am, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the the Gevirtz graduate School of Education at UCSB.