Obituary of Marilyn Brownton Straw

Scotts Valley, California - Marilyn Brownton (Miles) Straw, 63, passed away on January 1, 2013, after a year-long battle with lung cancer. She died at home surrounded by her family and friends. Marilyn was a beloved mother and wife and the daughter of the late William and Virginia DeVore Brownton. Marilyn will be remembered for her curious mind and dedication to education. A Bay Area local, she received her early education in Willow Glen before completing undergraduate work at Cal Berkeley in 1971. She also received a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from San Jose State University in 1992. Marilyn's varied work life included time at Yosemite and Granite Construction in Watsonville. Marilyn endeavored to improve the community around her and she was a lifelong leader and role model. During her teenage years, she worked with Job's Daughters. Her passion for education continued throughout her life and expanded into her community. She played an influential role in building Scotts Valley High School to emphasize first-class academics and an expanded women's sports program. To Marilyn, life was an ongoing adventure. She could be seen jogging seven days a week in all types of weather. She loved the outdoors, especially the High Sierras. She continued that adventure when she retired to San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico with her husband Jim. Marilyn remained active and involved in retirement, joining the Caracol Homeowners' Association in 1996. She served two terms as President and another two terms as Secretary. Family and friends will remember her as a patient, supportive and insightful woman who possessed a delightfully irreverent sense of humor. She is survived by her husband Jim, daughters: Mandy Straw, Tammy Straw-Dunn (Adam Dunn), Sadie Sanders (Seth Sanders); granddaughter Cora Sanders; one brother Glenn Brownton (Mary Counihan); and so many other extended family and friends. A public celebration of Marilyn's life will be held at a future date. Please contact Marilyn's family at <strawhome2013@gmail.com > to stay connected with plans for this celebration. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation at 845 Third Avenue 6th Flr., New York, New York 10022 or online at www.lungcancerresearchfoundation.org/donate.php