AUSTIN (Godfrey), Marilyn Leotta

Age 88, Truro. With deep sadness and ever-lasting love, the family of Marilyn Leotta (Godfrey) Austin announce her peaceful passing on Sunday, May 1, 2022. Marilyn, born in Springhill, married her devoted husband, Leo Duane Austin of Collingwood, in January of 1954. They shared 68 years of beautiful love and companionship, a truly inspiring relationship based on faith in God and kindness to others. Marilyn (Leo often called her Marily), was daughter to Douglas and Marion (Moore) Godfrey of Springhill and fun sister to Jean Davis, now of Bible Hill, and Doug (spouse, Barb) Godfrey of Mount Pleasant. Marilyn and Leo created three sons, Timothy, Paul, and Mark, who are forever in their debt for such wonderful (and patient) lifelong parenting. Their spouses Carol, Sherry, and Debby enjoyed close friendships with their momin-law; grandchildren, Joshua (Sun Young), Rachel (Kofi), Benjamin (Marcy), Andrew, Jasta (Michael), and Jodi (Kris) had the most warm and witty Gramma. Marilyn had seven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Marilyn brought joy and music to many as a soloist and pianist in numerous churches, and at special events such as weddings, always singing joyfully to glorify God.

She epitomized grace and dignity with humility and selflessness. Marilyn worked as a one-room schoolhouse teacher in Mapleton, Cumberland County after training at Truro’s Normal College. Marriage to a 36 year member of the Canadian Air Force meant many moves. She did substitute teaching in British Columbia and Ontario and ran a day care on the Canadian base near Baden, Germany. Marilyn and Leo were very active in Christian churches everywhere they lived, including their retirement town of Truro where they are part of the Connection Church (formerly Truro Wesleyan Church). They were also strong supporters of Gideons International Canada. A gathering to honour Marilyn and show love to Leo will take place Friday, May 6th, in Connection Church, 38 Pleasant St., Truro; 1-2 p.m. will be a time to drop in for a visit with friends and family. There will be an informal service of sharing and remembrance from 22:30 p.m. followed by more visiting until 3 p.m. Private family interment will be held Saturday, May 7th, in Wyvern Cemetery near Collingwood. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Marilyn’s obituary online and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com