Marilyn Roccaforte, 1926 - 2024
With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Marilyn Roccaforte, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother. Marilyn peacefully passed away on March 14, 2024 at the age of 98. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever be etched into the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Marilyn was born on January 26, 1926 in Port Arthur, Texas to the late Odey and Cora Landry. She was a woman of remarkable strength, compassion, and boundless zeal for knowledge. While dutifully raising six active children, she also dedicated her career to nursing, where her unwavering commitment to care touched the lives of countless patients. Her sharp mind, coupled with her nurturing spirit, made her a beacon of hope and comfort in times of need.
Family was at the center of Marilyn's world, and she cherished every moment spent surrounded by her loved ones. Whether it was hosting gatherings filled with love and laughter or sharing conversations over a glass of wine, she treasured the bonds she shared with her family members, who meant the world to her.
Marilyn found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had an insatiable love for the beach, where the sound of crashing waves and the warmth of the sun brought her solace and peace. Whether it was strolling along the shore or sitting on the deck of her cabin in the beauty of a sunset, the beach was Marilyn’s sanctuary, and generations of family memories were made with her at Crystal Beach.
Among her many passions, Marilyn cherished the camaraderie of genuine friendship. This was why she was regularly found playing cards with her close friends. During those lively games of poker and bridge, she relished in the shared laughter and meals that created lasting memories over a deck of cards. Her competitive spirit, spunk and quick wit made every game an entertaining occasion. Besides card games, Marilyn also found opportunities to stay connected to her community through regular attendance in Mass at St Peter’s Immaculate Conception, loyal participation in LaSertoma, being a Board Member at Estelle And Allan Fetters Center and, most recently, daily lunches at Groves Senior Citizen Center. Marilyn also absolutely loved to travel. She looked forward to every opportunity to explore new places and recount her expeditions to every listening ear.
Marilyn was a woman of remarkable curiosity. She had an avid desire to learn, analyze, offer wisdom and solve problems. Whether it was reading, completing puzzles or learning something intriguing, Marilyn wasn’t a fan of sitting idle. She stayed sharp-minded and had an educated answer for every problem presented to her.
As we mourn the loss of a much-loved family matriarch, let us find comfort in the memories she leaves behind. Her courageous spirit, unwavering curiosity and zest for life will continue to inspire us all. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her love will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
A Celebration of Marilyn's life will be as follows: Visitation on Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 5:00-8:00pm and rosary at 6:00pm, at Melancon~Levingston Funeral Home in Groves, Texas. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, March 18, 2024 at Immaculate Conception - St. Peters Catholic Church beginning at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Port Arthur. May her legacy of love and laughter continue to brighten our lives for years to come.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Carlo Roccaforte, Sr., brother Dr. Donald Landry and daughter-in-law Shirley Roccaforte. She is survived by her children, Mark Roccaforte and wife Vickey of Port Arthur, Kirk Roccaforte and his wife Christy of Bridge City, Chuck Roccaforte of Port Artur, Don Roccaforte and wife Val of Texas City, Julie Roccaforte and husband Johnnie of Groves, Danny Roccaforte and his wife Denise of Orangefield; her five grandchildren, Shalyn Roccaforte, Clint Miller, Coree Guerra, Cristal DuBois and husband Beaver, Aaron Roccaforte and his wife Mandy; her five great grandchildren, Camden DuBois and his wife Abby, Caleb DuBois, Trent Roccaforte, Deegan and Chloe Williams; and her two great-great grandchildren, Millie and Maelyn DuBois.
Serving as pallbearers will be Aaron Roccaforte, Trent Roccaforte, Beaver DuBois, Camden DuBois, Caleb DuBois, Brian Mirabella and Dale Mirabella.
The family of Marilyn would like to extend a special gratitude to Sheila Boykin, Letitia Garrett, and Lorraine Lonnett who cared deeply for her with generous compassion and selfless love.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Estelle and Allan Fetters Center: A Place For Challenged Adults (4601 Main Ave, Groves , TX 77619) or Groves Senior Citizens Center (West Groves Park, 5649 W Washington Blvd, Groves, TX 77619) in honor of Marilyn’s love for these two organizations.
Rest in peace, Mom, Maw Maw and GG. You will be deeply missed. But your love, like a lighthouse on the shore, will forever shine brightly in our hearts.