Marilyn Agnes (Ogilbee) Barker
Marilyn Agnes (Ogilbee) Barker, age 90, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends whose lives she touched. She lived a beautiful life of faith, love for family and friends, service to others, and an enduring spirit of kindness.
Born on June 29, 1936, in Glencoe, Ohio, to Franklin and Mary Ogilbee, Marilyn graduated from Belmont High School in 1956. She started at The Ohio State University, and her life took a turn when “she answered a lonely soldier’s letter” and that simple act became the beginning of a lifelong love story with Charles Barker, her devoted husband and partner.
Marilyn was slight in stature, but possessed a quiet determination, unwavering reliability, and a radiant smile that would brighten anyone’s day. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved.
Faith was her foundation and music filled her heart. She loved playing the piano and singing in church choirs. She also found fulfillment in serving those in need, coordinating homeless outreach through Trinity United Methodist Church.
Whether sewing something special for a loved one, or baking homemade treats, she found joy in creating things that brought happiness to others. Friendship was another of Marilyn’s gifts. She treasured simple moments like a morning walk with friends at Tuttle Mall or breakfast with the Friday crew at Panera. She understood that the greatest investments in life are the relationships we build along the way.
Marilyn embraced the adventure of seeing the world with Chuck. Their travels took her throughout the United States and around the globe, including faith-inspired trips to Israel (twice), going to Turkey and Greece to explore the churches of the Apostle Paul, and traveling across Europe. Some of her most treasured journeys were family adventures, including traveling to China to welcome her second adopted granddaughter, and visiting Lithuania to meet her daughter-in-law’s family.
Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family; celebrating life’s milestones, creating traditions, offering encouragement, and making sure everything happened “the right way” and “right on time”. Her steady presence gave those around her confidence that everything would be taken care of. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, generosity, perseverance, and unconditional love that will continue to guide her family for generations.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Barker; her parents, Franklin and Mary Ogilbee; and her niece-in-law, Donna Ogilbee.
She is lovingly remembered by her brother, Richard (Susi) Ogilbee; her children, Lisa Barker, Brian (Pat) Barker, and Clint (Laura) Barker; her nephew, Tom Ogilbee; her cherished grandchildren, Cole, Lily, Grace, Mason, and Aras; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing her.
She was an example of how an ordinary life, lived with extraordinary love, can leave an everlasting impact.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who loved Marilyn throughout her life and surrounded her with compassion during her final days.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at 1:00 pm ET at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH. Visiting hours will follow from 2:00-4:00 pm. A private burial will be held on August 3, 2026, at Union Cemetery, Columbus, Ohio.