Marilyn S. Wightman

Marilyn Wightman passed away on November 6th, 2026, due to natural causes. A devoted and beloved mother, sister, and friend, she is survived by her three children, Bruce, Brian, and Catherine, four grandchildren, and her two sisters, Margaret and Dorothy Strahl.

Marilyn was a tireless worker for the underdog, involved in desegregation and voter registration in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1970s, she joined the League of Women Voters and was elected to the local school board, where she served several terms. Later, she served as a director of the Mid-State Substance Abuse Coordinating Agency in Michigan, Catholic Charities in New Jersey, and the Stockbridge Housing Authority. She also served as president of the board for Construct.

Raising children during the cultural revolution of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, she modeled how women could be strong, independent, and sometimes fierce, yet simultaneously compassionate, loyal, and gracious. Late in life, she joined the Glory Bee clown troupe. She loved people and loved life. Her family and friends were the world.

She was preceded in death by her husband of more than 50 years, John.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 on December 19, 2026, at Old Parish Church in Sheffield, MA. Donations to Construct Berkshires in her memory are welcome.