Marilyn Stewart Stetler Dunlay

In Celebration of the Life of

Marilyn Stewart Stetler Dunlay

June 12, 1931 – April 20, 2026

Marilyn Stewart Stetler Dunlay, a lifelong resident of Oakmont, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026. She most recently resided at Longwood at Oakmont Retirement Community.

To those who knew and loved her, she was simply “Nana D”—a name that carried warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. Marilyn lived a vibrant and joyful life, defined by her kind spirit, quick wit, and the special way she made everyone feel welcomed and valued. She had a gift for bringing people together and a way of filling any room with light.

She embraced life fully and wholeheartedly. Marilyn found joy in music, photography, theatre, and especially in time spent with family and friends. Whether she was singing, dancing, or occasionally dressing in costume, she brought energy, fun, and a sense of celebration wherever she went. She never missed a chance to celebrate, share a good meal, or make someone laugh—moments, both big and small, that her family will hold closest.

She also had a special love for angels and butterflies, which brought her a sense of peace and wonder and became meaningful symbols to those who loved her. Marilyn had a deep love for her dogs—her beloved Dachshunds, Nicodemus and Sebastian, and her Great Dane, King. Her family finds comfort in imagining her reunited with them.

Education and caring for others were central to Marilyn’s life. She graduated from Oakmont High School in 1949, earned her degree in Psychology from Goucher College, and later completed her Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She went on to serve as Director of Counseling for the Oakmont/Riverview School Districts, where she dedicated her career to guiding, supporting, and uplifting countless students.

Her faith and community were equally important to her. Marilyn served as an Elder at First United Presbyterian Church and was a devoted member of the church choir. She remained active in the Oakmont community throughout her life, always finding ways to give back and stay connected.

Marilyn married John “Jack” Stetler in 1954, and together they built a loving home and raised three daughters: Kimberly, Kathy, and Lisa. In 1984, she married Edward “Ed” Dunlay. They shared many wonderful years filled with travel, laughter, and time with family and friends.

She is lovingly survived by her three daughters, Kimberly Stetler Patterson (Vance), Kathy Stetler (David “Scott” Williams), and Lisa Stetler Hull (Michael); her stepchildren, Donna Dunlay Moore (John), Edward Dunlay (Christine), Kimberly Dunlay Feuersanger (Zig), and Brian Dunlay (Melissa); her grandchildren, Margaret “Maggie” Theriot (Peyton), Eric Williams (Kaylee), and Christopher Williams; and her great-grandchildren, John “Jack” Theriot, Vivienne Williams, and James Theriot.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, John “Jack” Stetler and Edward “Ed” Dunlay; her beloved grandson, John “Jack” Patterson; and her stepchildren, David Dunlay, Daniel Dunlay, and Terri Dunlay Hampton.

Services and interment will be held privately.

Marilyn’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, joy, and connection. She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who cherished her, and a legacy of kindness that will continue to ripple through generations. While she will be deeply missed, her laughter, her spirit, and the love she so freely gave remain with all who knew her.

“Those we love don’t go away—they walk beside us every day.”

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