Marilyn Elaine Bass, 92, of Warrenton, formerly of Jonesburg, passed away on Friday, November 29, at The Cottages of Lake St. Louis, surrounded by family.
Marilyn was born on December 21, 1931, in Batavia, New York, to Leslie Voorhees and Marjorie Mae (Herrick) Voorhees. She married her love, Raymond Latrell Bass, in St. Louis, on October 10, 1952. They spent nearly 72 years loving each other before Ray’s recent passing on October 8, 2024. Marilyn and Ray have been reunited to continue their love story.
After 25 years as a bus driver with the Pattonville School District, it’s evident that she found joy and fulfillment in her role, not just as a driver, but in the connections she made with the children, families, and colleagues she encountered along the way. She was reliable, caring, and passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. Being a bus driver isn’t just about getting kids from one place to another; it’s about creating a sense of safety, security, and warmth. Marilyn brought that sense of comfort and joy to everyone she met on her routes.
She was an incredible person with a wide range of talents and a heart full of love. Her dedication to her work and family, as well as her sense of humor, made her a cherished figure in the lives of those who knew her. She truly embodied the idea that age is just a number when it comes to living life with enthusiasm and love. She was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, never missing a game. Marilyn's artistic talents in oil painting and sewing, her love for flowers and horses, and her willingness to try anything once reflect her vibrant and adventurous spirit. Whether through her carpentry skills or her laughter-filled moments with family, she truly left a lasting impact as a mother, grandmother, and friend. Marilyn's legacy of hard work, creativity, and warmth lives on in the memories of everyone she touched.
Marilyn is survived by her two daughters: Debra Miller and Donna (Mike) Noonan; four grandchildren: Christy (Jon) Freeman, Kimberley (Jack) Eller, Robert “Bobby” (Heather Paul) Miller, Heather (Dennis) Kopp; ten great-grandchildren: Elizabeth (AJ) Harding, Kristin Eller, Tyler Eller, Maddison Miller, Scott Kopp, Jasper Miller, Louis Freeman, Logan Kopp, Levi Freeman, Zachary Miller; two great-great-grandchildren: Oaklynn Harding, Theodore Harding; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond Latrell Bass, her parents, Leslie and Marjorie Mae Voorhees, son-in-law Robert D. Miller, and siblings, Betty Sivret, Robert “Bob” Voorhees, and Audrey Seward.
A Funeral Service will be held at the Warrenton Community Church in Warrenton, on Tuesday, December 17, at 12 P.M., with Pastor Gene Hall officiating. Marilyn will be buried alongside her husband, Raymond, later that day. The family will be available to visit with friends and family at the church beginning at 11 A.M. before the Funeral Service.
Memorial Contributions are suggested to the Warrenton Community Church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or to the Helen Reagan Cancer Fund, c/o Schlanker Funeral Home.
