Marilyn Aitken

It is with earthly sadness, but heavenly rejoice that we announce that Marilyn Aitken went to be with the Lord on December 21, 2023. Visitation will be at Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral home from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Thursday, December 28th. The funeral service will be at the First United Methodist Church located at 165 E Broad Street of Cookeville on Friday, December 29th at 11:00 am with visitation from 10 am until time of service.

Marilyn leaves behind a legacy she spent 72 years building. Marilyn was born and raised in Monticello, Kentucky. A 1968 graduate of Monticello High School, Marilyn moved to Richmond, Kentucky to begin her studies at Eastern Kentucky University. Although she opted to get married and begin her family, she graduated with her degree in elementary education from TTU in 1994 fulfilling a life desire to teach. After working as a teacher’s aide for years, she returned to Northeast Elementary School in 1995 to be a third-grade teacher. Marilyn was very proud of her accomplishments in the classroom and fond of all the memories made with co-workers and students.

After retirement, Marilyn spent time nurturing and instructing her own grandchildren. Marilyn loved her six grandchildren and doted on being called Mimi. She not only worked on their development while they were in her care, but she also volunteered at Algood Elementary School in their classrooms. She took great pride in helping her past colleagues from Northeast who had made the transition to teach at AES.

As the grandchildren became independent, Marilyn began refining her painting skills. Although she had always been creative playing the piano, singing in the church choir, cross-stitching, and writing poetry, she found joy and peace in painting. She joined a painting group and began seeking advice for improvements. She enjoyed painting landscapes, flowers, beach scenes, and birds; however, her angel paintings gave her a newfound passion. She was able to extend her heartfelt compassion and love through her angels. These angels allowed her to share in God’s love and grace with others during great joy and after heartfelt loss.

Marilyn’s success can be defined in the friendships and relationships she shared. She spent her life making sure that others could count on her presence and love when they needed it most. She lived to make others happy. She always had the right words and perfect gifts to share with those she treasured. Marilyn never met a stranger and could make conversation in any situation. She had a friendly demeaner that invited people to join in the activity or discussion.

Marilyn will be deeply missed by so many within the community. Her life of accomplishments and adoration will continue to be fulfilled by those who carry on in her namesake. She is survived by her husband Tom; daughters Michelle Aitken, Carey Aitken, and Laura Solomon (Stephen); grandchildren, Wilder Vaughn, Audrey Vaughn, Jiake Vaughn, Ellison Vaughn, and Eva Solomon; her sister Lynn Connor (Larry); nephews, Jason Gregory, Brian Gregory (Lindsay, Camden, and Asher), Jeremy Connor (Brianna), and Jane Bowie (Alex). She was preceded in death by her parents Maurice and Geneva Worsham and grandchild Kinleigh Solomon.

The Aitken Family would like to recognize Jeremy and Kayla with hospice that cared for Marilyn over the past year. They extended heartfelt compassion and exemplary care that helped ease family concerns when they needed it most.

Honorary pall bearers are the retired teachers of Northeast School, her former third grade students, and her painting group.

In lieu of flowers, please donate children’s books in her memory to Northeast Elementary School, Algood Elementary School, or any other county or school library.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com