Marilyn J. Stevens of Dunstable, MA

Marilyn J. (Harper) Stevens, a beloved wife, devoted mother and grandmother, and pillar of strength, peacefully passed away on June 1, 2023, enveloped in the embrace of her loving family. She was 80 years old and was born on June 16, 1942, to the late Ernest and Alice (Leedberg) Harper of North Chelmsford, MA. She lived a life full of love, laughter, adventures, and making cherished memories with family and friends.

She was dedicated to raising her two daughters, and after they grew up, she pursued a career at Purity Supreme, where she worked in both the stores and the corporate office for twenty-two years. Later, she spent eight years at ENSR before eventually retiring.

Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Donald Stevens, whom she married on February 13, 1965, and was an incredible caregiver to her in her later years. She is also survived by her two daughters, Susan Bonenfant and her husband Daniel of Amherst, NH, and Laurie Johnson and her husband Dean of Pepperell; her grandchildren, Leann Stupak and her husband Justin of Townsend, MA, Alyssa Maurice and her husband Steven of Greenfield, NH, Zachary Johnson of Pepperell, MA, Alex Bonenfant of Amherst, NH, and Kyleigh Bonenfant of Amherst, NH; Five great-grandchildren, Natalie and Sydney Stupak of Townsend, MA, and Autumn, Gavin, Declan and Adalynn Maurice of Greenfield, NH. She also had several step-grandchildren, Amber Taylor and her husband Chris, and their children Christopher, Sean, and Jane of Townsend, MA; Dean Johnson and his wife Jen, and their children Lila and Dean of Windham, ME; and Andrew Johnson and his daughter Alivia of Pepperell, MA.

She is also survived by her two sisters, Carole McQuarrie of Gualala, CA, and Ruth Racheotes of Natick, MA, and many nieces and nephews.

Marilyn’s joy in life was found in the simple pleasures that brought her immense happiness—spending time with family, tending to her flower gardens, immersing herself in the pages of books, making puzzles, and expressing her creativity in crafts.

Marilyn and Donald shared an adventurous spirit that took them on journeys near and far. For many years they enjoyed spending time with dear friends at Kenolie Campground in Newfane, Vermont. Together, they embarked on unforgettable trips to Hawaii and San Diego, a delightful cruise to the Bahamas, and numerous trips to Florida to spend time with family and friends. Their passion for uncovering family history took them to Nova Scotia and Quebec, where they delved into genealogical research. One remarkable adventure that Marilyn held dear in her heart was a trip she took alongside her sister, Ruth, to visit an aunt in Oklahoma, where they had many laughs and made wonderful memories.

In her later years, Marilyn resided at the Sunny Acres Nursing Home in Chelmsford, MA, where she received exceptional care. Her sharp wit and sassy charm endeared her to the staff, leaving a lasting impression on all those who crossed her path. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team at Sunny Acres Nursing Home for their compassionate care and support during Marilyn’s time there.

Relatives and friends are invited to Dolan Funeral Home, located at 106 Middlesex Street in Chelmsford, on Thursday, June 8, 2023, for Visitation between 10:00 am and 11:00 am. Funeral Services will commence at 11:00 am at the funeral home, followed immediately by Interment at Central Cemetery in Dunstable, MA. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Marilyn’s name to The Michael J Fox Foundation.