Marilyn Towle

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Marilyn Towle, on November 24, 2025. At 99 years old, she left this world as she lived in it—fiercely independent, resilient, and tough as nails, a true Mainer through and through. Her legacy of love, strength, and wisdom graced every life she touched. Born in Phillips, Maine on May 20, 1926, she grew up in the Madrid and Phillips area with her parents and two beloved brothers. She held fond memories of time spent with her family—especially visits and stays on her grandparents’ farm, and the joy of attending dances with her grandfather Haydn as he played the violin. She has often said her grandfather was very special to her and the person who had the most positive influence on her as a child. Marilyn attended a multi age, one room school house in West Phillips through grade school and was a child during the great depression. After graduating from high school, which she attended at the time of World War II, she moved to Portland and attended business college. It was in Portland that she met her husband of 49 years, George Towle. They went on to raise five children together. A devoted mother and grandmother, she cherished every moment spent with her family. Her home was the heart of countless memories: tea parties with her grandchildren, lessons in how to bake, play piano, knit, and tend a flower garden. Her hands were rarely still—kneading dough, planting bulbs, or wrapping small fingers in yarn to teach the simple magic of creating something from nothing. She made everyone feel welcome under her roof, and there was never a shortage of warmth in her kitchen or delicious food to share with everyone. A fabulous baker, her pies, cookies, cakes, and every kind of baked goods imaginable, became something she was well known for. Even making wedding cakes for her daughter’s and granddaughter’s weddings. Sleepovers with her older grandchildren, always meant baking and in the morning making homemade Belgian waffles with them in her big waffle maker. In later years she would spend Christmas Eve sleeping over with her youngest granddaughters, building gingerbread houses and tracking Santa on Norad in their matching Christmas pj’s. All the grandchildren fondly and lovingly remember time spent with their “Nana.” Remarkably active even late in life, she was an avid bike rider, pedaling through town with the same determination and youthful energy she possessed in her younger years. She had a fabulous wit and sense of humor and lived independently in her home for 98 years, a testament to her strength, independence, and unwavering resilience. As the world changed around her, Marilyn refused to be left behind. In her 80’s, she learned to use a computer—an extraordinary accomplishment for someone who grew up without modern technology. Before long, she was emailing family and friends, sharing photos and messages through her computer and iPad. She continued to use her iPad right up until she passed away at 99, never losing her desire to stay connected with friends and family or zooming to watch Sunday church services. She loved to garden and her flower gardens were a reflection of her spirit—vibrant, colorful, and full of unexpected beauty. She loved the song of birds at dawn while sipping a cup of English Breakfast tea and the quiet company of nature, especially at Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth, one of her most treasured places. It is here where she has a bench in her name, along with her longtime love and devoted companion Stanley Becker, who she met later in life but shared a wonderful love story. With a deep belief in God, Marilyn was an active member of church throughout her lifetime, most recently returning as a member of the Standish Congregational Church. Her family would like to thank all the wonderful staff at Falmouth House-Oceanview, whose kindness and remarkable care over the past nine months was so appreciated. As well as son-in-law Bill Caiazzo, whose caring and devotion, especially at the end of Marilyn’s life, meant the world to us. Marilyn was predeceased by her oldest daughter Barbara Caiazzo, her husband of 49 years George Towle, her partner Stanley Becker, brothers Iman Goodwin and Gary Pettingill and numerous friends. She will be greatly missed by her devoted and loving family who feel blessed to have had so many years with her. Son, George Towle, daughter, Anita Bailey, son Haydn Towle and wife Tamara, daughter Cheryl Lewis and husband Ken. Son in law, Bill Caiazzo. Grandchildren (oldest to youngest) Jessica Bailey, Michael Caiazzo and wife Katie, Matt Bailey, Greg Caiazzo and wife Kelly, Jennifer Weiner and husband Justin, Amanda Bailey and husband Jim, Brianna Bailey and husband Skyler, Quinn Lewis and Bella Lewis. In addition, she had 21 great grandchildren. She will also be missed by her loyal cat Marmee, who offered her love and comfort until the very end. Marilyn’s humor, warmth, resilience, and the lessons she shared—both spoken and quietly demonstrated—will remain forever woven into the lives of those who loved her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by all her loved ones who have passed, the beautiful flowers and songbirds she adored, and the gentle sea breeze of her beloved Maine coast. Visiting hours will be held at Dolby, Blais & Segee Funeral Chapel, 76 State Street in Gorham, ME on December 4, 2025 from 5-7:00 pm. A celebration of life service will be held at the Standish Congregational Church, 25 Oak Hill Road, on December 5, 2025 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Standish Congregational Church or the Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk.

Marilyn Towle

May 20, 1926 - November 24, 2025

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