Marilynn E. Heinze December 30, 1952 – October 22, 2026 

Marilynn E. Heinze, 73, passed away on October 22, 2026, in The Villages, Florida. Born on December 30, 1952, in Newark, New Jersey, Marilynn was a proud Jersey girl through and through. She carried that unmistakable Jersey spirit, along with her strength, humor, and larger-than-life personality, throughout her life.Marilynn was truly one of a kind. Funny, kindhearted, strong-willed, and outspoken, she was fiercely devoted to the people and causes she loved. She never hesitated to speak her mind or stand up for what she believed in. A proud and vocal Democrat, she had strong convictions, wasn't afraid to share them, and never shied away from a spirited conversation. She was unapologetically herself, and that was part of what made her so special. Beyond her love for family, one of Marilynn's greatest passions was helping others. She devoted her entire professional life to social work, spending more than three decades as a crisis counselor for the West Milford Township School District in New Jersey. A tireless advocate for children, she offered compassion, guidance, and support to those who needed someone in their corner. Her work was far more than a career; it was a calling. Through her dedication and unwavering commitment, she touched countless young lives and made a difference for families who will never forget her. Above all else, Marilynn cherished her family. She was a loving mother to her son, Jeremy Heinze, and his spouse, Courtney Heinze, and her daughter, Kari Heinze, and her husband, Michael Marcella. She was a devoted and proud grandmother to Wyatt, Mackenna, Michael, and Emma, who brought her immeasurable joy. She shared her life with her beloved spouse, Steve Minkoff. Her family was her heart, and the love she had for them was at the center of everything. The memories they created together will be treasured for generations. Marilynn found happiness in life's simple pleasures: the feeling of sand beneath her feet at the beach, spending time surrounded by family, and cheering passionately for her favorite teams. Whether rooting for the Knicks, Giants, or Yankees, she was a loyal fan who brought the same enthusiasm, passion, and spirited opinions to sports as she did to everything else in life. Marilynn leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years or accomplishments alone. It lives on in the children she helped, the lives she touched, the laughter she inspired, the conversations she sparked, and, most importantly, the family she loved so deeply. Her strength, compassion, humor, and unmistakable spirit will live on in all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her. The world is a little less colorful without Marilynn in it. Her absence will be felt in the everyday moments, family gatherings, laughter, and conversations that will never quite be the same. But the love she gave, the memories she created, and the difference she made will never fade. Marilynn was one of a kind, and there will never be another quite like her. She will be missed more than words can express, remembered with laughter and tears, and loved forever. Rest peacefully, Marilynn. You made a difference. You made us laugh. You made your mark. And you will never be forgotten. In lieu of saying goodbye, we invite all who knew and loved Marilynn to come together to celebrate her life, share memories, and remember the woman who meant so much to so many. Saturday, November 21, 2026 Visitation 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Wm. A. Bradley & Son Funeral Home 345 Main Street Chatham, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Marilynn’s memory to Lung-Force, an organization close to her heart. https://American Lung Association/lung-force?form=FUNLUJVTSJT