Marilyn O'Brien Arbaugh

Marilyn O’Brien Arbaugh never met a stranger, never went for less when more was available, and always had her bags packed for an adventure. She passed away peacefully in the presence of her loving children on November 19, 2021, at Kingston of Sylvania. Born March 11, 1935, in Toledo to the late Dr. Arthur and Helen (Fisher) O’Brien, she grew up working at O’Brien’s Tavern on Monroe Street, locally famous for their ribs. She graduated from Whitmer High School and the University of Toledo, where she was active in Pi Beta Phi sorority. At UT she met her husband of 55 years, Jim Arbaugh. They lived a life together filled with fun, family, and many good friends. Work was always a large part of Marilyn’s life. She taught business education at Petersburg High School, and then typing and shorthand part-time at UT for many years. While her children were young, she founded Imperial Custom Draperies with her close friend, Joyce Spinazze. After selling the business, she became the Legal Administrator for Martin J. Holmes and Associates and retired as the business manager for a local interior decorator. Marilyn was an avid volunteer, active in Christ the King Altar and Rosary Society, St. Francis Chapuis Society, Christ Child Society, Corey Woods Garden Club, UT Alumni Association, Pi Beta Phi Alumni Association, and many others. As a member of the Toledo Museum of Art Ambassadors, she led the steering committee that produced the award-winning Art Fare cookbook. She, Jim, and the entire committee worked tirelessly to publish this local gem. Among her passions was a good game of Bridge, travel, cooking, and her beloved cottage at Round Lake. A true character, she will be remembered for her creativity, sharp wit, ready laughter, and her deep love of people. Known for the past 26 years as “Baby Grandma”, Marilyn found her greatest joy investing time and energy into her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jim; brother, Johnny; and special in-laws Don and Dorothy Schafer. She is survived by her devoted children, Jennifer and Brian Arbaugh (Jennifer Floyd); brother Jim O’Brien; grandchildren, MacKenzie, Hailey, Drew, and Quinn; nieces, Debra Schafer Johnson, Tracy O’Brien Bennett; nephew, Scott O’Brien; and special sister-in-law, Tish O’Brien Rerucha. She also leaves behind many friends who will treasure her memory. It is fitting that Marilyn leaves us with her signature parting words, “I had a nice time at your party!” Please join Marilyn’s family in celebrating her life and sharing her story at “O’Brien’s Tavern” in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.) on Friday, November 26, 2021, from 4-8 p.m. Her memorial service will follow on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment will be private. The family thanks the Memory Care staff at Kingston of Sylvania for their loving care of Marilyn. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial tribute the Toledo Museum of Art or a charity of your choice.