Marilyn Duker Obituary
Visit the Evan W. Smith Funeral Services - Dover website to view the full obituary.
Marilyn Watson Duker was born in Smyrna, Delaware, on February 18, 1953, to the late Rev. Robert Watson Sr. and Grace Wilson Watson. Affectionately known as "Dimples" by her family, Marilyn was deeply loved by all who knew her.
She peacefully transitioned to eternal rest on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Marilyn's life reflected her unwavering faith and devotion to her Lord and Savior.
Marilyn received her education through the Smyrna School District. On November 18, 1985, she was united in holy matrimony to the late Donald E. Duker, sharing 23 years of marriage together.
She dedicated over 30 years of faithful service as a school bus operator, taking great pride in safely transporting children to and from school. Marilyn cherished each child as if they were her own, making everyone feel like family. She also owned and operated her own school bus for more than 10 years. Marilyn concluded her distinguished career as a school bus operator in 2011.
Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and a faithful member of Trinity AME Church. She found peace and fulfillment in country drives and tending to her yard. Above all, Marilyn treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family, which brought her immense joy and strengthened lifelong bonds. She also enjoyed watching her favorite television programs, The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune, which were part of her daily routine.
Marilyn leaves behind her four cherished children, each of whom she loved, guided, and nurtured with her whole heart and soul: Joseph Watson (Shannon), grandchildren Justin and Brittany and great-grandchildren, Damon, Ella, Ava, and Emma. Rosaria Cephas (Jerome), grandchildren Darnell and Ja'Nell and great-grandchild Ja'Laiya. Donald Pierce Jr., grandchildren Talaney, Jade; Grace Norcisa (Norman), grandchild Jai'ke, and great-grandchild Jan'iya Grace.
She is also survived by her loving siblings: Marshall Wilson, Joyce Simmons, the late Robert Watson Jr., Sandra Steele, James Watson, Apostle Chester Watson, and Peggy Heath (Wayne); her uncle Edward Harrison Sr.; aunt Alpain Wilson; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Marilyn is also survived by her special friends, Pauline Goldsboro and Fannie Earl.
Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion, and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
She peacefully transitioned to eternal rest on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Marilyn's life reflected her unwavering faith and devotion to her Lord and Savior.
Marilyn received her education through the Smyrna School District. On November 18, 1985, she was united in holy matrimony to the late Donald E. Duker, sharing 23 years of marriage together.
She dedicated over 30 years of faithful service as a school bus operator, taking great pride in safely transporting children to and from school. Marilyn cherished each child as if they were her own, making everyone feel like family. She also owned and operated her own school bus for more than 10 years. Marilyn concluded her distinguished career as a school bus operator in 2011.
Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and a faithful member of Trinity AME Church. She found peace and fulfillment in country drives and tending to her yard. Above all, Marilyn treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family, which brought her immense joy and strengthened lifelong bonds. She also enjoyed watching her favorite television programs, The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune, which were part of her daily routine.
Marilyn leaves behind her four cherished children, each of whom she loved, guided, and nurtured with her whole heart and soul: Joseph Watson (Shannon), grandchildren Justin and Brittany and great-grandchildren, Damon, Ella, Ava, and Emma. Rosaria Cephas (Jerome), grandchildren Darnell and Ja'Nell and great-grandchild Ja'Laiya. Donald Pierce Jr., grandchildren Talaney, Jade; Grace Norcisa (Norman), grandchild Jai'ke, and great-grandchild Jan'iya Grace.
She is also survived by her loving siblings: Marshall Wilson, Joyce Simmons, the late Robert Watson Jr., Sandra Steele, James Watson, Apostle Chester Watson, and Peggy Heath (Wayne); her uncle Edward Harrison Sr.; aunt Alpain Wilson; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Marilyn is also survived by her special friends, Pauline Goldsboro and Fannie Earl.
Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion, and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Evan W. Smith Funeral Services - Dover
518 S Bay Rd, Dover, DE 19901
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