Marilyn G. Knox

OXFORD – Marilyn G. (Mack) Knox, 89, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Westborough.

Marilyn was born in Worcester to the late Harold J. and Louise M. (Elliott) Mack and graduated from Commerce High School in 1954. She later attended cosmetology school in Schenectady, New York. Throughout her adult life she lived in several places across the Northeast before settling in Oxford in 1989, where she became deeply rooted in her church and community.

Affectionately known as “Buzzie,” Marilyn had a gift for bringing beauty and warmth into the lives of others. She worked as a professional cosmetologist and also expressed her creativity as a cake decorator and florist. Her hands were rarely still. She loved to knit, garden, and create, and she shared those gifts generously. Family members cherished the sweaters and blankets she made, and many people in need were warmed by the prayer shawls, hats, and mittens she knitted for them.

Marilyn’s faith was a guiding light in her life. She was a devoted member of Oxford United Methodist Church, where she served on the Hospitality Committee, Women’s Group, Worcester Fellowship, and Worship Committee. For 30 years she lovingly designed the altar flowers, bringing beauty to countless services. In recent years she attended Lakeville United Church of Christ in Lakeville, MA where she continued her passion for creating altar arrangements. She was also a member of the knitting club at the Council on Aging in Middleboro where she received a Presidential award for 500 hours of knitting clothing for the needy.

Helping others was central to Marilyn’s identity. She played an instrumental role in the development of Worcester Fellowship, a street-based faith community in Worcester that provides meals and spiritual support to those who are struggling. She believed deeply in caring for people and meeting them where they were.

Marilyn approached life with joy, humor, and a sense of adventure. In her 60s she could be found skateboarding with her grandchildren. And well into her 70s and 80s, she enjoyed ziplining, parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling. She loved silly television shows and lighthearted movies and often joked that documentaries “put me to sleep.” Her laughter, curiosity, and willingness to try new things made her an inspiration to those around her.

Without question, Marilyn loved her family and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 57 years, Robert R. Knox Sr., who died in 2014. She is survived by her children, Cynthia L. Bradstreet and her husband Chris of Griffin, GA, and Robert R. Knox Jr. and his wife Tambre of Hudson, MA; her four grandchildren and wives, Gregory Bradstreet and his wife Pamela Garant, Nathaniel Bradstreet and his wife Katerina, Kyle Bradstreet and his wife Krista, and Kelson Knox; her 2 great granddaughters Kennedy Rose and Karina Grace Bradstreet; her very special friend, Gail Babineau of Charlton; her many loving in-laws, nieces, and nephews. She was also predeceased by her brothers, John E. Mack and James H. Mack, and her sister, Joyce L. Sharpless.

Marilyn carried her love for God, her family, and her friends wherever she went. She believed that small acts of kindness could change the world, and she lived that belief every day—through warm meals, hand-knit gifts, open doors, and a welcoming smile. Her hands created beauty, her heart embraced others, and her faith guided her path. She will be remembered for the way she made people feel: loved, welcomed, and valued. Her light has not gone out—it has just moved.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. Calling hours will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Flowers may be sent, or memorial contributions may be made to Oxford United Methodist Church, c/o Worcester Fellowship, 465 Main St., Oxford, MA 01540.