Marilyn Elaine Strickland, 71, died peacefully at her home on Sunday August 4, 2013 with her loving family by her side.

She was born on October 9, 1941 in Peterborough, N.H., the daughter of the late Edgar and Sarah Stanton Townsend. Growing up in Milford, N.H., she attended local schools and was a graduate of Milford High School.

At the completion of school, Marilyn began to raise her family. When the children started school, a job opportunity opened at Hitchners Manufacturing in Milford and she accepted. Marilyn could be found in the foundry, working as a metallurgist. It was through this job she would meet her future husband. They met at the company Christmas party in 1974 and with a little pressure from Donald’s mother, they were married on Memorial Day weekend in 1975 in the back yard among the azaleas. This lovely flower has remained special in both their hearts to this day and can be found around their home.

In 1984 the couple moved to Boothbay, a place Donald had spent many summers while growing up.

On their return, they owned and operated Village Cash and Carry in Boothbay Harbor for 10 years. She was thrilled to make this move as she loved being by the seashore. After her time at the store, she went on to become the night auditor at Spruce Point Inn.

She loved working crossword puzzles and watching Jeopardy every night. In her younger years she enjoyed doing different varieties of arts and crafts. Over the past 17 years Marilyn was happiest when spending time with her grandson, Eben. She loved him and was very proud of all of his many accomplishments. Eben lived up to each and every one of her expectations, and in her eyes, could do no wrong. Marilyn’s family was an integral part of her life and she loved each and every one of them. She will be forever missed and loved by all that knew her.

Survivors include: her loving husband of 38 years, Donald Strickland of Boothbay; son, Lawrence Goodwin of Milford, N.H.; daughter, Cindy Goodwin of Boothbay Harbor; grandson, Eben Goodwin of Boothbay Harbor; brother, Earl Townsend of Milford, N.H., and her beloved dog, Kirby.

You are invited to share your condolences, memories, and photos with the family by visiting their Book of Memories page at www.hallfuneralhomes.com

Should friends desire memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 45 Forest Ave., Portland, ME 04101, or to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, 27 Atlantic Hwy., Edgecomb, ME 04556.

Arrangements are entrusted to Simmons Harrington and Hall Funeral Home, Boothbay.