Marilyn "Merl" R. Wright

Marilyn Regina Wright affectionately known as “Merl” or “Merl Jean” was born on October 18, 1958, in Chestertown, MD to Janet Rochester and the late John Rochester Sr. Marilyn passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 31, 2024, at her family home in Church Hill, MD. Marilyn was educated in the Queen Anne’s County Public School System and a graduate of the class of 1976. Merl Also attended Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, MD. While sharing time together during her high school years. She fell in love with the love of her life, Elmer E. Wright, better known as “Buck.” As the two began to fill their lives with joy and laughter, on November 9, 1985, they were united in Holy Matrimony. Marilyn gave birth to two children whom she loved and depended upon, for each one’s specialty. It was Tisha for her homemade meals and Aaron for his hilarious jokes and remarkable sense of humor. After high school and throughout her career, she was employed by several employers, including Ames Department Store, Black and Decker and Campbell Soup Company. However, it was her employment for 23 years at Kent Center Inc. in Chestertown, MD where she found her true calling. She worked in several positions including Direct Support Professional, Day Program Supervisor and Receptionist. She was known there for displaying her passion for clients, their families, and coworkers. This made her heart complete. After retirement, Marilyn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved her favorite homemade meals whether they came from a loved one’s kitchen or one of her favorite eateries. Marilyn had a gracious and tolerant way of dealing with life and life’s situations. Most of the time she spoke what she thought but could often phrase it without hurting your feelings; however, she wanted to make sure you got the point. Merl loved being at the Rochester Family Reunion on the first Saturday in August. Merl was a member of The Rochester’s Cousins Club. (Blue Shirts) When it came to keeping herself hydrated, water would come as a second choice because Pepsi was her favorite go-to of all time. When family would say “You drink too much Pepsi.” She would respond politely and calmly “I didn’t have that many today!” Marilyn grew up loving the lord. Knowing prayer was instilled in her from childhood. She was a lifetime member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Church Hill, MD. As a young child, Merl was awesome at reciting her Easter peace poems with no mistakes or hesitation. She also sang with the Bethel Stars and loved foot stomping, old time gospel singing quartets such as Willie Neal Johnson and the Gospel Keynotes. As the years progressed, she helped with numerous duties in the church as needed. Marilyn is preceded in death by her father, John Rochester Sr.; husband of 36 years, Elmer E. Wright; older brothers, Richard Patterson, Conrad Rochester Sr., and John Rochester Jr. Marilyn is survived by her mother, Janet Rochester; children, Letitcia Bailey (Travis) and Aaron Rochester (Desiree); grandchildren, Aaron, Arianna, John, Jaiden and Mila Rochester, Zion Bailey, Ai’yaunah Wright and Asia Bailey; siblings, Iris Carter and Destry Rochester Sr. (Melissa); god daughters, Alicia Gibbs and Tatiana Rochester; adopted daughter, Tika Sisco; god sisters Myra Wilson and Reba Reese; sisters-in-law, Betty Whyte (Anthony), Cheryl Rochester and Denise Patterson along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marilyn "Merl" R. Wright

October 18, 1958 - October 31, 2024