Marilyn Johnson

Marilyn Therese Meiselbach-Johnson, a beloved Laurel beacon of creativity and advocacy, passed away on June 7, 2025 due to complications from illness. Born on June 25, 1951 in Brooklyn, NY, Marilyn's creative spirit and passion for the arts was evident from an early age.
Her academic journey culminated in a degree in speech pathology from the State University of New York at Fredonia, a testament to her commitment to helping others find their voice. However, Marilyn's heart always held a special place for her first love, sewing, a skill she honed under the watchful eye of her beloved grandmother, Rose McDonald. Her talent in this craft would become a defining aspect of her professional life.
Marilyn's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the owner and operator of the Whimsical Unicorn from 1993 to 1998, and later as the proprietor of the Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio. Her reputation for excellence in alterations, costume design, and custom clothier work were well-known, and her leadership skills were recognized in her longtime role as President of the Laurel Board of Trade. As President of the Board Marilyn worked tirelessly to promote local small businesses and organize the annual Main Street Festival.
She also shared her expertise and enthusiasm as an active member of the Professional Association of Custom Clothiers and the Business Women's Network of Howard County, where she helped to coordinate the scholarship fund for women seeking higher education to re-enter the workforce.
Marilyn's interests were as diverse as her talents. She was an avid listener of public radio and a devoted reader of Heather Cox Richardson's daily briefs. She delighted in cooking and preserving foods, which brought joy to many family gatherings. She loved theater and opera, both from the audience and on stage herself. Books were constant companions throughout her life, and she found great pleasure in the written word. Later in life she enjoyed learning about different spiritual practices and exploring her own individual faith.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, Paul Johnson; her children, Jessica (Patrick), Thomas (Jennifer), and Kevin (Rachel); her cherished grandchildren, Damon, Cooley, Elliott, Grady, Jude, and Bria; and her siblings, Charles, Barbara, Gerard, Karen, and James. Her parents, Maryann and Charles Meiselbach, and sister Regina Vogt preceded her in death. Marilyn will be laid to rest at the family plot on Long Island, NY in a private graveside ceremony.
In her passing, Marilyn leaves behind a tapestry of memories that will continue to inspire and influence those fortunate enough to have been a part of her remarkable journey. She was a woman who lived her life with purpose, and her absence will be felt deeply by her family, friends, and the community she so lovingly served.
The family will receive visitors on Tuesday, June 17th from 3-5pm and 7-9pm at HARRY WITZKE'S FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marilyn's memory to WAMU 88.5 or the Business Women's Network of Howard County Scholarship Foundation, Inc., c/o Sue Bullock, 2535 Sand Hill Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042.