Marilyn Ball, 71, of, Derry, NH, died October 19, 2005 at home after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Marilyn was born in Windham, NH and lived most of her life in Derry. She was the daughter of the late Donald and Katherine (Pivovar) Bentley. She graduated from Pinkerton Academy in 1952 and Hessers Business School. She worked at the First National Bank, ran a day care in her home for many years, worked as a teacher’s aide at Derry Village School, Birchwood School and Pinkerton Academy. She also baked and sold her baked goods at her Swallow’s Nest Gift Barn and Store. Marilyn was very active in the community. She helped run the Derry Youth Center, was a member of the first Recreation Commission, the Crisis Home Committee, the Derry Area Youth Services Board, the Center for Life Management, president of the Derry Demon’s booster club, and coached the Demon’s cheerleaders. She was inducted into the Pinkerton Academy, year 2000, Hall of Fame.
Her home was always open to all as she brought in orphans and senior citizens for Thanksgiving dinners, etc. and, of course, the many friends of her children. She was noted for her family get-togethers at her home and at her Beaver Lake cottage. She was dearly loved by all who knew her. She loved being with and around her five grandsons. She loved her Red Sox and enjoyed all sports particularly when her children and grandchildren were involved. Marilyn and husband, Don, were avid bowlers together for 50 years.
She leaves her husband of 51 years, Donald Ball, and children Douglas and wife Donna, Dan, Darren and Linda. Her grandchildren Jason, Nathan, Colby, Colin and Cameron and a brother Donald Bentley. She leaves aunts, cousins and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Dana.
Following cremation a memorial service was held on Friday, October 28, 2005 at 10:00am in the First Parish Church, 47 East Derry Road, Derry. Calling hours were Thursday, October 27th from 4 – 8pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch, Derry. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to the Frederick Larry Ball, Jr. Irrevocable Trust, C/O TD BankNorth, 35 Manchester Road, Derry, NH 03038.