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Marilyn J. Hotaling, 94, of Tribes Hill, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 29, 2026 with her loving family by her side.
Marilyn was born on February 10, 1932 in Amsterdam, NY to the late Charles and Beatrice Miller Welke.
She attended Amsterdam schools and graduated from the former Wilbur H. Lynch Senior High School in 1950.
She was employed at Amsterdam Printing and Litho before starting her family.
Marilyn was a member of Tribes Hill Presbyterian Church, Tribes Hill Seniors and Fort Johnson Seniors. She enjoyed parties with family and friends, camping and boating on the Great Sacandaga Lake and trips to Cape Cod and Florida in her younger years.
Marilyn was united in marriage to Robert E. Hotaling on January 6, 1951. They enjoyed 72 years together until his passing on March 1, 2023.
Marilyn was also predeceased by her daughter, Patti MacNaughton, brothers Donald Welke and David Welke, and sisters Shirley Dufel and Thelma Frisch
Marilyn is survived by her daughters Laurie B. Smith, Debra L. Shibley and son, Thomas Hotaling, grandchildren, great grandchildren, a special niece, Lisa Spagnola and other nieces and nephews.
Marilyn was especially grateful to her granddaughter and caregiver Morgan Smith, who fulfilled her grandmother’s wish to to remain at home until her passing.
A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Montgomery County SPCA, 1232 NY-5S. Amsterdam NY 12010 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
To leave a message for the family please visit www.rileymortuaryinc.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

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