Marilyn Gingerich

Marilyn Gingerich

Marilyn Louise Gingerich, 79, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 17, 2025. She passed away peacefully in Millersburg, Ohio, the community she lovingly called home.

Marilyn was born to Lloyd and Gladys (Hogberg) Crosby on October 1, 1946, and grew up in Killbuck, Ohio, where she developed the quiet strength, humility, and servant’s heart that defined her entire life. 

On December 30,1966, she married her sweetheart, Merle Gingerich. Together, for nearly 59 years, they built a life centered on love, family, and faith. They have been a steady presence at the Millersburg Christian Church for 45 years.

Marilyn was known for her warm smile and infectious laughter. She enjoyed board and word games, loved to sing, and had the special gift of being able to play the piano by ear. Her home was welcoming, hospitable, and a safe haven for all who entered.

Marilyn served as a Guidance Office secretary at West Holmes High School and later as a librarian at the Holmes County District Public Library, where her gentle spirit and dedication were felt by many.

Her greatest earthly joy was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Merle, her children, Maribeth Biddison (Mark) of Spring Branch, Texas, Melissa Raber (Daniel) of Berlin, Ohio, and Matthew Gingerich (Jennifer) of Franklin, Tennessee. She deeply cherished her grandchildren, Micah Biddison (Catherine), Meagan Brito (Lucas), Jakob Gingerich, and Scout Gingerich, who were a source of immense pride and joy to her. She is also survived by her sisters, Yvonne Tinkey (Richard), Betty Taylor, and sister-in-law Elane Crosby. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her in-laws, Ervin and Esther Gingerich, siblings Janice Dix and Paul Crosby, and brothers-in-law Bill Taylor and Raymond Dix.

Above all else, Marilyn’s life was a quiet testimony of unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. She lived with a deep and sincere commitment to her Savior, never seeking recognition. Even in difficult seasons, she chose gratitude, gentleness, and trust in the Lord. 

Her love for her family was rooted in her love for Christ, and she reflected that faith through patience, humility, and faithful service to others, one whose life spoke more powerfully through her actions than her words. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral services will be held 12 noon on Saturday, December 27 at The Millersburg Christian Church with pastor Wes McElravy officiating. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday at the church. 

A private family graveside will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery, Millersburg, Ohio. Those wishing to share a memory or make online condolences may do so by visiting www.alexanderfhinc.com.