Marilyn W. Birkett

Marilyn W. Birkett ObituaryMarilyn Jean (Winslow) Birkett, 82, of Morris, passed away peacefully surrounded by beloved family and friends on Wednesday February 5th after a long, courageous battle with dementia.
Marilyn was born on August 20, 1942 at Waterbury Hospital, the only child of Harris and Hattie (Read) Winslow. She lived for a short time in Wolcott before moving to Bunker Hill, and finally settling in Morris with her family in 1953 where they ran and operated the Bantam Lodge and Lighthouse Restaurant. Marilyn was eager to share her fond memories of her time at Bantam Lodge, often reflecting upon mowing the vast lawn, waitressing at the restaurant, and playing her father's Baby Grand Piano. This is also where her never-ending love of Bantam Lake began, where she spent ample time on the water with her parents. This love of the lake continued well into her adulthood, passed down to her children and grandchildren.
Marilyn attended school at James Morris School through grade 7 and started grade 8 at Wamogo High School when it first opened in 1955, a fact that she was most proud of. Here, she met the love of her life Phil. At Wamogo, she was a guard on the basketball team which was a hobby she continued at UCONN where she graduated with a degree in business in 1964. After college, she went on to work as a legal secretary as well as a travel consultant which allowed her to visit places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and Bermuda.
On June 7, 1963, Marilyn married her high school sweetheart Phil. They enjoyed antiquing together and hoped to one day open their own antique shop. Together, they welcomed two sons, Michael and John in 1966 and 1970 respectfully. Marilyn was a devoted wife and mother, who enjoyed spending time with her husband and sons at their cottage on Marsh Point and trips to Lake Bomoseen, Vermont, every summer. She was very involved with her boys, taking them fishing, swimming, and sharing her love of cooking and baking. Marilyn lived on South Lake street while her sons were young, where the family made lifelong friends before settling in Morris on Bantam Lake Road in 1983. She was very proud of her home and could often be found painting or tending to her gardens. She lived there until moving to Brandywine Assisted living in 2021.
Throughout her adult life, Marilyn loved to volunteer her time, donating frequently to the Red Cross blood drive, serving on the board of education, and being a member of the Junior Women's Club. Additionally, she was known for her daily walks around town where she picked up cans and litter. She was known in the community for her beautiful smile, friendly wave, and witty one liners! She had a love for everyone, and was very loved in return by all who were lucky enough to cross her path.
Marilyn found her true calling when she became a grandmother to four grandchildren who were her pride and joy. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with them: taking walks around the lake to feed ducks and watch sailboats, sharing precious stories about her childhood, her love of music, and of course making ritualistic trips to Popeys Ice Cream for something "creamy good"! She never missed a game, ceremony, or special event and said "I love you" every chance she got.
Marilyn is survived by her husband of almost 65 years, Phil. Her two sons: Michael Birkett of Vermont and John Birkett, and his partner Susan, of Connecticut. Her grandchildren: Carrie Birkett of South Carolina, Lauren Young and her husband Sam of Virginia, Emma Litke and her husband Calum of Maine, and Spencer Birkett and his wife Cassidy of Connecticut. Along with several cousins, Marilyn is also survived by her great-granddaugher, Ava Litke, who was so blessed to be able to meet the "greatest great-grandma" there is!
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that in honor of Marilyn, perform an act of kindness and make someone smile today. Additionally, the family would like to express their utmost gratitude to the devoted staff of Brandywine Living for their exceptional care and love for Marilyn in the last years of her life.
Private burial as well as a celebration of life extended to family, friends, and community members who loved Marilyn will take place in the spring.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Marilyn, please visit our .
Marilyn Jean (Winslow) Birkett, 82, of Morris, passed away peacefully surrounded by beloved family and friends on Wednesday February 5th after a long, courageous battle with dementia.
Marilyn was born on August 20, 1942 at Waterbury Hospital, the only child of Harris and Hattie (Read) Winslow. She lived for a short time in Wolc