Obituary of Marilyn Frances Peterson

Marilyn Frances Peterson, age 70, of Annandale, New Jersey, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, strength, and devotion to family and community.

Born on May 28, 1955, in Newark, New Jersey, Marilyn was the beloved daughter of the late Herbert Frank McRae and Ethel Lillie MacFarland. From an early age, she carried a quiet determination and a compassionate spirit that would guide her throughout her life.

Marilyn pursued her education with dedication, earning her associate’s degree, and went on to build a career marked by responsibility and integrity. Most recently, she served as a Security Officer with Colonial Security in Jersey City, New Jersey, a role that reflected her strength of character, sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of others. As the crossing guard on Grant and Jackson in Jersey City her commitment to the safety of those children was legendary and she was loved and respected by everyone.

Above all else, Marilyn’s greatest joy and proudest role was being a loving wife. She was devoted to her husband, Pastor Richard E. Peterson, the love of her life and partner in faith and purpose. Their marriage was a true testament to love grounded in mutual respect, shared beliefs, and unwavering support. Together, they built a life centered on faith, compassion, and service to others.

Marilyn will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle presence, and the quiet grace with which she lived her life. She had a way of making others feel seen and valued, offering kindness without expectation and strength without fanfare. Her faith guided her daily life, and her example continues to inspire those who were blessed to know her.

Marilyn is survived by her Husband, Richard; Sisters, Gail, Susan, and Francine; Children, Nadia, Tahira, Tenisha, Loytah, and Shavon; grandchildren, Nayquan, Zakaria, Naima, Nyasia, Keyara, Tabira, Cartaira, Carleonta, Nashawn, Keon, Serenity, Keshawn, and Tyrin; and her great grandchildren, Nashawn Junior, Jeremiah, Halo, Heaven, Royal, Kayson, Athena, Scarlett, and Kyssac

She will be deeply missed by her beloved husband, family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Marilyn’s love and light live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn's honor may be made to Marilyn's Memorial Fund (please click the link). The purpose of this fund is to break the generational curse of poverty, keep families together and help families become self-sufficient and off of government assistance

Visitation for friends and relatives will be on Thursday, January 8th from 10:00 until 12:00PM with a celebration of life service beginning at 12:00PM. All services will be held at Martin Funeral Home, located at 1761 Route 31, Clinton NJ, 08809. Interment will be held on Friday, January 9th at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, located in Newtown PA.