Marilyn Brennan

Marilyn Brennan, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday evening, February 26, 2025, a few months shy of her 100th birthday. Born on June 6, 1925, in Jersey City, NJ, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Pangaro. Marilyn’s spirited presence brightened the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Marilyn grew up in Jersey City, NJ before moving to Cranford, NJ, early in her married life. Eventually, in 1964, she and her husband Gerard settled in Flemington, NJ, where they continued to build their life together. Even in later years, she held her family close to her heart, providing love and support to those around her.

Marilyn dedicated a significant part of her professional life to the Educational Testing Service (ETS) in Princeton, NJ, where she served as an administrative assistant from 1966 until her retirement in 1991. Her sharp mind remained a testament to her extraordinary capabilities, evident throughout her life and into her final days.

A music lover at heart, Marilyn found joy particularly in the timeless melodies of Frank Sinatra. Additionally, she relished dancing, especially the "Lindy Hop," with her late husband, Gerard P. Brennan. Their marriage, which commenced on November 30, 1952, was a partnership marked by love and companionship, enduring for 59 wonderful years until his passing in 2012.

Marilyn's energy and creativity were matched only by her thoughtfulness and generosity. She was a loving wife, mother, and devoted "Nana" to her grandchildren, Nicole and Matthew Brennan. In addition to her family, she found joy in crossword puzzles and her role as a part-time seamstress, exploring her creative talents through fabric and design.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, the late John J. Pangaro, who died in 2009.

She leaves behind her two children, Gerard Brennan and Pamela Brennan; her adored grandchildren, Nicole and Matthew Brennan; as well as her precious cat Iman, all of whom will carry forward her legacy of love and joy. Marilyn's affectionate spirit and vibrant personality will be cherished and missed by her family and friends.

Graveside services and inurnment with her late husband at St. Magdalen Mausoleum will be private under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit Marilyn's memorial page and guestbook below at www.holcombefisher.com.