Obituary of Marilyn C. Henley

Marilyn Henley, 86, a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, peacefully passed away on the morning of October 18, 2024, concluding a brave six-year journey with vascular dementia. Born on December 16,1937, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Dr. Fred and Dorothy Bosler, and preceded in death by her husband William O’Hara and husband Robert “Jan” Henley, as well her brother Michael and sisters Jeanne Wruble and Emily Costello.  

Marilyn is survived by her beloved sister, Rita Burroughs; her children, Ryan, and Dennis O'Hara; and her stepchildren, Mike, Tom, Jim O’Hara, Kathleen McConahay, Colleen Warren, and Casey Jenkins, Brian, Brett, Mark Henley, and Rebecca Weise. 

After graduating Central Catholic High School in Fort Wayne, IN in 1955, she attended St Mary of the Woods College in Terre Haute, IN. Following her sophomore year she entered religious life and took the name Sr. Jeanne Michelle with the Sisters of Providence.  In the early 1970s, after completing a Masters Degree in Music from “The Woods” and a wonderful decade and a half as a religious sister she heard a new call, one to marriage and family life.  A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, her love for her spouse, children, and grandchildren shined ever so brightly.  

An excellent pianist, organist, and music teacher she served the Church her entire professional life, capping her career with her most beloved role as Director of Music and Liturgy for Holy Spirit at Geist Catholic Church, including her role as Director of the 9:30 am Mass Choir.  

A card shark, puzzle aficionado, raving fan of the Pacers and Colts, and devoted follower of everything American Idol and Dancing with the Stars, she enjoyed life to the fullest, always ready to pick up the phone with friends and family (especially her sisters) to “hash out” what’s new and exciting.  

Marilyn was a woman of deep faith and always committed to sacrificial love and service to others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her for her warmth, kindness, and boundless joy. 

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Marilyn's life on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at St Paul Catholic Chapel (8780 E. 700 N., Fremont, Indiana 46703) near Clear Lake, IN for her Visitation (9:30 am) and Funeral (11 am), followed by the Rite of Burial at Covenanter Cemetery and luncheon back at St Paul Catholic Chapel. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a memorial gift be made to the Sisters of Providence of St Mary of the Woods.