Marilyn Jean Davis Gosdeck, age 80, passed away peacefully at Buffalo Crossings Healthcare and Rehabilitation in The Villages, Florida on May 3, 2025.  Born on December 27, 1944, in Hazleton Pennsylvania, Marilyn graduated from the McCann School of Business in 1965, married her childhood sweetheart, Anthony Gosdeck and moved to Arlington, Virginia. Her first job at The Pentagon in Washington, D.C. served as the steppingstone for a career that eventually led to The White House.

Executive assistant to the Under Secretary of Defense, Admiral David Murphy, in 1980 Marilyn went along when Admiral Murphy accepted the Chief of Staff position for then Vice President George H.W. Bush. From 1981 through 1985, Marilyn worked in the Old Executive Office Building and West Wing in the White House with plenty of opportunities to travel the globe aboard Air Force 1 and 2. She ended her career as Personal Assistant to Boyden Gray in the White House Counsel's Office.

Retiring in 1995, she and Tony moved from Alexandria, Virginia to Ocean City, Maryland for a few years before they found their retirement dream in Florida. They loved living in Naples and The Villages. One of their favorite past times was exploring the local restaurants with the many friends they made along the way.

Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2006, Marilyn was a strong, determined woman who never let the disease define her. We will be forever grateful for Marilyn's extended family in the Villages — Christine, Betina, Justin, Von and so many others. They made it possible for her to live the life she wanted until the end.

A generous and loving spirit, Marilyn had a keen interest in people – their stories, their struggles and their passions. Classy and elegant, her creativity and artistic flare was evident in the way she dressed and decorated.

Marilyn was famous for the many poems she wrote to commemorate events and people. They will be treasured by all. She was also known for the beautiful jewelry she created. Marilyn thoroughly enjoyed her time with her book clubs, playing mahjong and doing crafts.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Anthony, The Villages; her brother Allan Davis (Marita), Glen Mills, PA and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Benjamin Davis and Thelma L. Davis, as well as her sister Janet Radziewicz.

She will be laid to rest alongside her mother and grandparents in Pennsylvania. A celebration of her life will be scheduled in Pennsylvania at the convenience of her family.  Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449.  Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com .