Marilyn Ann DeFendis

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Marilyn Ann DeFendis, who left this world just two days before her 90th birthday. Born on Groundhog’s Day, February 2, 1935, in Ware, Massachusetts, Marilyn lived a beautiful and fulfilling life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. She passed away peacefully in Tega Cay, South Carolina, surrounded by the love of her family. 

Although Marilyn was born in Massachusetts, she was raised in the Warwick/Providence area in Rhode Island. Once married, she moved to Long Island, NY, then lived in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, and later settled in Charlotte, North Carolina, embracing each place with warmth and love.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband and the love of her life, Rudy DeFendis, as well as her dear son, James John DelGiudice; and also a niece that she raised like a daughter, Donna Sinchak. She is survived by her loving children: Nancy Ann Couture, Dennis John DelGiudice, her niece that she raised like a daughter, Debby Dorflinger, Linda Endrina & Susie Reyes. Her legacy lives on in her cherished grandchildren: Brendan Couture, Bridgette Couture, Dennis John, Corey & Joseph DelGiudice, Andres II, Vanessa & Jennifer Reyes, Tony & Natasha Endrina, as well as her adored great-grandchildren: Damien, Mavis, Margot, Riley, Oliver, Chloe, Andres III, Cruz, Mila, Landon, Logan, Jacob & Grayson.

Marilyn was a sweet, kind, and beautiful woman, inside and out. Always wearing a smile and bringing joy to those around her, she had an incredible zest for life and was truly the life of the party. Adoringly called “Mel” and “Mellie,” she was deeply loved by family and friends. When she was a young teen, she worked for The Rhode Island Telephone Company, where she quite literally "let her fingers do the walkin'!" She later dedicated her career to New York Telephone Company, where she formed lifelong friendships and made a lasting impact.

A visitation and service to honor Marilyn’s life will be held on Sunday, February 9th, 2025 at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services, 101 Oak Grove St., Mt. Holly, NC 28120.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM with a funeral service to follow at 6:00 PM. A celebration of her wonderful life will follow at a venue to be determined.

Marilyn’s love, laughter, smile, beauty, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew her. Her memory will live on in the stories we share and the love we carry forward. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved Rudy and son James.