Marilyn Ann Stavinoha

Marilyn Ann Stavinoha, a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 81. A native of Weimar, Texas, Marilyn was born on September 29, 1944, to Lee Otto Horak and Gertrude Louise Ripper. She was a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew her, and her gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

Marilyn's life was defined by her unwavering dedication to family and her gift for nurturing relationships. On June 15, 1963, she married her husband, LeRoy Joseph Stavinoha, in her hometown of Weimar. Their union was filled with love, laughter, and a shared commitment to caring for others until LeRoy's passing on October 20, 2016. Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, and her brothers, James Leonard Horak and Joseph Horak.

As a mother, Marilyn poured her heart into raising her two daughters, Melissa Newsom and her husband Randal Blake of Houston, and Jill Wilkes and her husband David Scott of Katy. She took immense pride in her role as "Emmie" to her grandchildren-Hannah Blake Newsom, Andrew Cole Newsom, Luke Scott Wilkes, and Claire Elizabeth Wilkes-never missing a moment to celebrate their accomplishments and everyday joys. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart and whose lives she touched profoundly.

A graduate of Weimar High School, Marilyn carried a strong work ethic and a loving spirit throughout her life. She was known for her ability to connect with others, never meeting a stranger, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

Her hobbies reflected her creativity, joy, and love for others. Marilyn was an accomplished seamstress who delighted in crafting Halloween costumes and school outfits for her daughters. She had a gift for bringing people together and loved hosting gatherings filled with laughter and friendship. Traveling with friends was one of her greatest pleasures, always looking forward to the next adventure. For more than 40 years, she cherished her monthly bunco nights, rolling dice and sharing stories with her beloved group. Even as her memory faded, Marilyn held fast to the things that made her feel like herself-her Mary Kay skincare routine, the love of Estée Lauder's Beautiful fragrance, her wedding ring, her devotion to church, and that radiant smile that never left her face.

Marilyn was a faithful servant at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church, where she dedicated her time and talents to both youth and music ministries. Her commitment to her faith and her community was unwavering, inspiring many with her generous spirit.

The family will receive friends from 5–7 PM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Schmidt Funeral Home Grand Parkway, where a rosary will be recited at 7 PM. A Mass

honoring Marilyn's life will be held on Thursday, January 29, at 11:00 AM at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church with Fr. Miguel Solorzano as celebrant. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Marilyn's honor.

Marilyn Ann Stavinoha leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will be remembered by all who knew her. She will be forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends, and her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives she touched.