Marilyn D Esparza

Marilyn (Stockdale) Esparza age 85 of Phoenix, Arizona, died peacefully into her Savior's arms on May 6, 2025 of natural causes. 

Born December 24, 1939 in Morrow County, Ohio the fourth child of the late Delbert and Iona (Baker) Stockdale. Loved by her family as a sweet and sassy, fun loving lady that enjoyed recounting family stories and lore. She would sing out with her beautiful alto voice, wherever and whenever the Spirit led, both secular and gospel songs. She always loved song service, whether at Camp Sycar, in Mount Vernon, Ohio or her church and was often asked to sing for special music.

Marilyn was not caught up in the trappings of this world and lived humbly before God serving wherever she was needed. She moved to Arizona in the mid-70s loving the weather and the sights. She was an avid walker and loved to hike and camp with her Toyota pickup camper as she explored the state and our country. She lived in Mesa, Phoenix, Cottonwood, Siligman, Snowflake, and Prescott, preferring the cooler temperatures of northern Arizona. 

She had many jobs and she was proud of being an early microchip worker and also enjoyed working for the Salvation Army. Later in life, she worked as a companion and health aid to many seniors.

Left to celebrate her life and miss her dearly are nieces and nephews and their families from Seattle, WA, to Ft. Myers, FL and from New England to Arizona.

Including her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her son, Troy Cole, brothers: Gene, Don, and Eddie Stockdale and sisters: Beverly Stutesman, and Gloria Kendall. 

After cremation her ashes will be buried with her family at a later date in Byrn Zion Cemetery in Mt. Gilead, Ohio.