Marilyn Jane (Hartman) Jende

Marilyn Jane (Hartman) Jende of Westerville, age 81, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. She was born on December 22, 1943 in Cincinnati, Ohio to George and Lillian (Rhodes) Hartman. She married the love of her life, Aris Jende, on June 13, 1965. A graduate of Circleville High School, she received her bachelor’s degree in education from Ohio University and a master’s degree in education from Ohio State. After teaching reading to elementary school students for several years at South-Western City Schools in Grove City, she moved to Dayton where she was an Assistant Superintendent for Montgomery County Public Schools. Following years of dedication to her career, during which she forged many wonderful relationships with her co-workers, she moved back to the Columbus area in 2001 to be closer to her children and grandchildren. 

Marilyn was a devoted mother and invested deeply in her children. She enjoyed participating in politics, and served as a Delaware County Central Committeewoman. She was an avid Buckeyes fan, and loved following the latest news on recruits as much as she loved cheering on the team. She grew to love cooking and trying new recipes. She loved to travel and particularly enjoyed visiting Sanibel Island, Florida and the Great Smoky Mountains. But most of all, Marilyn loved her grandchildren. Helping them get to school, activities, and sporting events was her greatest joy. Her 6 grandchildren will treasure the memories of their afterschool time together.

Marilyn was a lifelong Lutheran but attended Genoa Baptist Church in her later years. Imparting faith in Christ and a love for the church was the greatest gift she gave to her children. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Aris; daughter Deanna (Shawn) Stevens; son David (Jennifer) Jende; grandchildren Lindsey, Megan, and Andrew Stevens and Benjamin, Alexander, and Lucas Jende; brother Gary; sister-in-law Mary Hartman; brother-in-law Maris (Nola) Jende; many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister Elaine, brother George Jr, and parents George and Lillian.

A family funeral is planned for January 19 at Grace Lutheran Church in Westerville with interment at Sunbury Memorial Park. Special thanks to Right at Home Services and Capital City Hospice. Memorial contributions may be made to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.