Marilyn Ousley, affectionately known as Mo, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, at her “second” home of Winter Haven Hospital, at the age of 85. Born on May 30, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, she was the beloved daughter of Isadore and Grayce Pifher.

Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and faith. She married Peter Ousley in 1961 and soon moved to Florida in 1968. She was a devoted mother to her five children: David (Beverly), Scott (Jennifer), Steve (Christine), Jennifer (Tony Insua), and Karen (Daniel Hagman). Her 17 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she was a cherished sister to Ginny (Joel Scime), Alice (Foley), and Mark (Cindy) Pifher.

A graduate of Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, New York, with some of the classes at Canisius College, Marilyn devoted over 50 years to caring for others as a registered nurse at Winter Haven Hospital. Her patients knew her for her exceptional care, kindness, and unwavering commitment to their well-being. Her passion for nursing led her to continue to inspire and mentor countless other nurses especially brand-new nurses fresh out of nursing school. Mo was known for her nursing cap and distinctive freshly pressed white uniform dress that was a lasting symbol of her dedication.

Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. Marilyn was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church for over 56 years and attended Mass regularly. She also served as a Eucharistic Minister, bringing Communion to the homebound and those in the hospital and nursing homes. Her faith was reflected in every aspect of her life, as she worked tirelessly to minister to the spiritual and physical needs of others.

Marilyn Ousley, known by so many loving nicknames, was a beacon of kindness and friendship and will always be remembered for her compassion, her faith, and the deep love she shared with everyone she encountered. She leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held in her honor on Saturday, January 4th, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 532 Avenue M NW, Winter Haven, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Catholic Charities in Marilyn’s memory.

Memorial Keepers (1)

Marilyn Ousley