Marilyn Elaine Flanagan's Obituary
Marilyn Elaine Flanagan of Leesburg, VA, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026.
Marilyn was born in Philadelphia, PA, on January 19, 1925, the daughter of Marion and Ferd Strobel. She graduated from Frankford High School in 1941 and became a young war bride in 1942 when she married William Homer, a Merchant Marine officer who was later commissioned in the U.S. Navy. This began her lifelong adventure as a Navy wife, traveling across the United States and to three continents.
After her years as a Navy wife, Marilyn returned to school and pursued a career in nursing. She was a talented quilter and leaves behind a legacy of beautiful quilts in the homes of her family. She loved to play Scrabble and was an avid bridge player.
Her family had the joy of coming together in 2025 to celebrate her 100th birthday, where stories were shared by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Marilyn is survived by her six children: Jan Homer Fontanella of Connecticut; Gregory Homer of Georgia; William Homer, Jr. of North Carolina; Mary Homer of Virginia; Christina Homer Daggett of North Carolina; and Theresa Homer Burley of the United Kingdom. She is also survived by 16 beloved grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Captain William N. Homer, in 1984; her devoted companion, Bill Huppert; and her second husband, Colonel John Flanagan.
Marilyn is also survived by her brother, Kenneth Strobel, and was predeceased by her siblings, Robert Strobel and Dorothy Strobel Michener.
All who knew and loved her will miss her vibrant spirit.
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