Marilyn Jeanne McClellan passed away peacefully on May 8 at the age of 92.

Born and raised in Clinton, Iowa, Marilyn earned her undergraduate degree in English Literature with a certification in teaching from the University of Iowa. She married David L. McClellan, M.D. and converted to Catholicism at that time. She remained a devout Catholic, steadfast in her faith throughout the entirety of her life.

In 1958, Marilyn moved to Spokane, WA with her young family where she taught English Literature at Marycliff High School. She later moved into administration at Spokane School District 81 and obtained her master's degree in administration from Whitworth College.

During her career with District 81, she was known for her strong spirit of leadership and dedication in service of educators. One of her greatest achievements was the development and operation of the District's Volunteer Teacher's Aide Program (later known as the Partner's Program), an initiative that would go on to have a positive influence on Spokane's students, teachers and volunteer educators for decades. She also worked tirelessly on many successful school levy campaigns which had profoundly positive and lasting impacts on the public education system in Spokane. After a long and storied career, Marilyn retired from District 81 but remained active with the Spokane Area Retired Educator's Association for many years.

Marilyn was a wonderful mother to her sons and raised them with unconditional love and boundless devotion. When each of her sons married, Marilyn welcomed her daughters-in-law with open arms. As her family continued to grow, so did her capacity for love. She took great delight in creating a special bond and relationship with each of her nine grandchildren who knew her affectionately as Grammy Mac. An ever gracious hostess, Marilyn enjoyed bringing her family together for Christmas Eve dinner where she always served lasagna—one of her boys' favorites. She will be remembered fondly for her love of all things apple and her constant, supportive presence in her family and friend's lives.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents Fred and Grace Mona. She is survived by her four sons and their families, David (Terri), Steven (Patty), Mark, and Jeffrey (Stacey). She is also survived by her nine grandchildren Erin, Kelly, David A. (David); Christopher, Colin (Steven); David M., Christina (Mark); Connor, and Cole (Jeffery), as well as her four great-grandchildren.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who gave such wonderful help to mom: Ashley, Randy, Kelly V., Kelly W., Colleen, Lynn, Lizzie, Vibeke, Karen, Pam, Mary, Robin and Meg. We would also like to thank Horizon Hospice (Olivia, RN) and Hospice of Spokane (Ruth, RN).

Marilyn Jeanne McClellan was generous and kind. She will always be a part of our memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The Funeral Mass for Marilyn will be celebrated at 2PM on Saturday, May 13 at St. Thomas More church. Her online memorial page can be found at www.holycrossofspokane.org