Marilyn Jean Cheatham

Marilyn Jean Cheatham (Howe), a spirited and adventurous soul, passed away at the age of 82 on May 24, 2025, in Woburn, Massachusetts. Born on April 8, 1943, in Lynn,n Massachusetts, Marilyns zest for life was evident from her early years and continued throughout her life.
Marilyns educational journey began at Lynn English High School and later at Simmons College, where she laid the foundation for her diverse professional endeavors and adventurous spirit. Her career spanned from pioneering programming work on the first ATMs at Bay Banks to owning a small business that specialized in software programming for small enterprises. Marilyn found her final professional calling in real estate, where she met her loving late husband, Warren H. Cheatham.
Embracing their love of the ocean Marilyn and Warren started the journey of a lifetime together, spending over twenty years living aboard their sailboat, Live Free. They shared many adventures traveling the waters of the East Coast of the United States, throughout the Caribbean, and to their favorite destination, Trinidad. As a licensed sailing captain, Marilyn navigated the seas with skill and independence and also embraced her husbands passion or flying, obtaining her own pilots license. Sharing her enjoyment of traveling with her sister Elaine, she set foot on nearly every continent, making her way from the Pyramids of Egypt to independently traveling to the Iditarod in
Alaska which showcased her boundless curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring new horizons.
Marilyn was also an avid reader, participating in many book clubs throughout her lifetime. Additionally, she embraced her passion for gardening by starting her own blueberry farm, which was a testament to her green thumb.
Marilyn is survived by her son, Erik B. Labuza; her granddaughter, Shannon E. Labuza; and siblings, Elaine Howe and Bonnie McKay. Her family, friends, and all who knew her will remember Marilyn as a woman of formidable spirit and boundless passion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Marilyns memory to the Palliative Care Consultation Services at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Contributions can be sent through their donation page: [Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Donations] ().
Marilyns legacy is one of adventure and profound connection to the world around her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the memories of those she touched. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Marilyn, please visit our Tree Store.