Marilyn S. Schnaars

On March 11, 2025, of Maplewood, NJ.  Age 92.  Beloved aunt of Stephen and Rosarie Cerone, Heidi, John, David and Edward Monsees.  Dear Great-aunt of Anthony Cerone, Alyssa Amato, and Anna Cerone. Also many, many more devoted nieces and nephews.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Marilyn Siri Schnaars, beloved aunt, cousin, friend, and cherished community member. Marilyn, 92, passed away on March 11, 2025.

Born on December 22, 1932, to Henry and Marie Schnaars, Marilyn was the younger sister of Elsie. She graduated from Columbia High School in 1951 and spent her life making an impact in her beloved town of Maplewood. Marilyn was a lifelong member of the South Orange-Vailsburg United Methodist Church where she served as the church historian, was on the finance committee, and was a member of the Board of Trustees.

Marilyn spent her career working at the Prudential Insurance Company of America, first at their headquarters in Newark, NJ and then at their location in Roseland, NJ.

She was a dedicated and active member of the Women’s Club as well as the Maplewood Senior Club, where she served as both President and Vice President. Marilyn was also a member of the Garden Club and a trustee at the Durand-Hedden House, where she taught children historic lessons in 18th-century cooking. Marilyn’s family legacy in the South Orange/Maplewood area included their ownership of Gruning’s on South Orange Avenue, where her father ran the ice cream department and delighted the local community.

Marilyn was known for her generosity, warmth, and willingness to help others. She spent countless hours volunteering for community events such as the Spring Egg Hunt, the Maplewood Fourth of July festivities, Mayfest, and National Night Out. Her willingness to lend a helping hand and her unwavering dedication to her neighbors made a lasting impact on all who knew her. Whether offering rides to those in need or striking up friendly conversations at the Maplewood Community Pool, Marilyn’s kindness was felt by all who crossed her path.

Her genuine smile and enthusiastic spirit were contagious, often encouraging newcomers with her famous words, “We have a lot of fun! C’mon down!” Marilyn’s positive outlook and selfless commitment to her community earned her the distinction of Marilyn Schnaars Day in Maplewood, which was celebrated on January 14, 2025.

Marilyn’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and she will be dearly missed. She is survived by her nephews and nieces Stephen and Rosarie Cerone; Heidi, John, David, and Edward Monsees; and many, many other devoted nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

Family and friends are invited to attend her viewing Saturday 1:30-3:30 PM at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp.  Funeral service 3:30 PM.

Interment will be private.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”