Marilyn Elizabeth Rittenhouse, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2026, in the compassionate care of Hospice of Cincinnati. Born on September 23, 1948, in Rochester, New York, Marilyn's life was a testament to her love for her family and friends. No matter where her life took her, she had a way of making every place feel like home, both for herself and those around her.

Marilyn was the daughter of Theodore E. May and Marie A. May (Kleeh). She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Martin Theodore May and Wilhelmina E. "Minnie" May (Bubel), Uncle Frank Townsend and Aunt Helen Townsend (May), and her parents. Her memory will be treasured by her children, Allison B. (Michael T.) Cline and Martin J. (Emmy C.) Rittenhouse, her beloved grandchildren: Emma and Benjamin Cline, and Cooper, Dorothy, and Kip Rittenhouse, and her sister, Jean (May) (Robert) Katchmar, as well as her nieces and nephew.

Marilyn graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in Rochester, New York, and pursued further education in computer programming. Her career took her to Xerox, and she transitioned to independent consulting as her children were born. After relocating to Plymouth, Minnesota, Marilyn became a devoted full-time mother and then moved to Cincinnati, Ohio where she worked at Elder-Beerman. Later, after moving to Brighton, Michigan, Marilyn would work for Elder-Beerman until her retirement. She moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she could focus on gardening nearly year-round, and then back to Cincinnati in order to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

Marilyn found peace and happiness tending to her gardens, where she grew impressive roses, hydrangeas, irises, and azaleas. She also enjoyed sewing, needlework, and was an avid reader. A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, she often stayed up late cheering them on through extra innings. Her thoughtful nature shone through in her ability to find the perfect gifts for her loved ones, especially her grandchildren. She also found immense joy in the company of her two beloved dogs, Meredith and Millie.

A celebration of Marilyn's life will be held on November 6, 2026, with visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the service at 10:30 a.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, located at 3400 Michigan Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio. She will be laid to rest at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Montgomery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marilyn's memory to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, a cause close to her heart.

"What a happy woman I am, living in a garden, with books, babies, birds, and flowers and plenty of leisure to enjoy them." - Elizabeth and Her German Garden by Elizabeth von Arnim