Marilyn Lee Fike, 79, recently of Newark and formerly of Brandon, Florida, died Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Middleton Senior Living. She was born April 15, 1946 in St. Louis, Minnesota to the late Edward Benton and Wilhelmina Evelyn (Benson) Sutton.

Marilyn devoted more than 40 years to nursing, living out her calling with a true nurse's heart. Her compassion and kindness were evident in the gentle care she showed to everyone in need, always ready to help in any way she could. A talented seamstress, she lovingly made and altered clothing for family and friends, and also found joy in painting and other creative pursuits.

She and her husband shared a deep love for travel, especially cruises, and together they created countless cherished memories on nearly 100 voyages. Marilyn was witty, sassy, and wonderfully funny, bringing laughter and light to those around her. She was forgiving, graceful, and strong, fiercely advocating for her children and encouraging them to believe they could accomplish anything.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Brandon (Florida), Marilyn was deeply involved in church ministry and lived out her faith through service and love and also supported and involved with Grace Baptist Deaf Church. She also delighted in her favorite films and stories, including Shirley Temple, The Wizard of Oz, and The Lord of the Rings, which brought her comfort and joy.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Jimmy Albert Fike; children, Jona (Ronaldo) Feliciano, David Fike, Jenny (Andrew) Dennis, Stephanie (Jon) Newland, Renee Collins and Andrew Fike; grandchildren, Beth (Derek) Jones, Elizabeth (Cameron) McCarthy, Jedidiah Dennis, Zachariah Dennis, Andrew Dennis, Megan (James) Peeler, Mia Newland, Shawn Decker Jr., Joshua Decker, Kaylee Decker, Brianna Collins, Jayden Collins and Jacob Collins; great grandchildren, Micaiah, Jackson, Zailen, Aniylah and Leon; and siblings, Diane Babcock, Carol Turett and Clayton Sutton.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, Bob Lippert, Carl Lippert, Yvonne Stanko and Donetta Brandt.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Marilyn to Grace Bible Deaf Church, 10309 Raulerson Ranch Rd., Tampa, FL 33637.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com