Marilyn J. (Tinker) Clarke

Marilyn J. (Tinker) Clarke, 87, passed away peacefully at the Nevins Nursing and Rehab Center in Methuen, on Thursday, September 12, 2019. Born in Milbridge, ME to the late Clarence and Agnes (Robinson) Tinker, she was raised in Stonington, ME. Marilyn moved to Massachusetts in her 20s and remained there for the duration of her life working in businesses in Lawrence and Methuen. She was predeceased by her son, Clarence Hayward and her husband, Herbert Clarke.

A creative person, Marilyn enjoyed journaling, knitting, crocheting, embroidery and crafts of any kind. She was an artist who met her husband of 20 years, Herbert, in a painting class. Their passion for painting on any surface including slate, canvas, wood and sketching on paper led them to create an art studio in the home they shared in Methuen.

Bingo was a favorite activity of Marilyn’s as well as bus trips to Foxwoods Casino with the Methuen Seniors. Marilyn was active in TOPS and the Methuen Housing Authority Tenant Association, holding positions on their councils over the years. After retirement, she volunteered at the Holy Family Cancer Center.

Growing up on an island, Marilyn will be remembered for her love of lighthouses and her collection of lighthouse statues. She also had a love for squirrels with many statues and stuffed squirrels around the house. A movie enthusiast, she had an extensive collection of VHS tapes. She was a Boston Red Sox fan.

Marilyn will be missed by her many friends at the Methuen Housing Authority Mystic Street Complex and Nevins Nursing and Rehab Center. She held a special place in the hearts of friends, Carole and Denise Gosselin.

Her funeral service is Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at 11 AM, at the Dewhirst and Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn’s name may be made to the Methuen Housing Authority Tenant Association, 240 Mystic Street, Methuen, MA 01844.

For directions or to send a message of condolence to the family, please visit www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com.

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