Marilyn R. Cote

Marilyn R. Cote, 75, of Sanford died Sunday morning at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough following a brief illness. She was born in Biddeford on January 2, 1948 a daughter of Alton and Ruth (Campbell) Benson. She spent her early years in Kennebunk, then was raised in Wells by her foster parents Walter and Estelle Ducharme graduating from Wells High School. Marilyn was employed with Sprague Electric in Sanford for 32 years, retiring when the plant closed. Raised in poverty, she was very generous in adulthood having an affinity for those in need. Marilyn kept busy in retirement. She enjoyed puzzles, bowling, the beach and family trips to Boothbay Harbor where she indulged in some favorite foods such as lobster and Chinese. As matriarch of a very active family, she could be found at her sons’ and granddaughters’ athletic events, (not always quietly) in the bleachers. She also enjoyed attending concerts in which her granddaughters sang. She was predeceased by her parents, her foster parents, siblings Shirley Wayne, Betty Cote, DeeAnne Campbell and Noreen Bridges. Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Philip G. Cote of Sanford, 2 sons, Rick A. Cote and his fiancé Kendall Wyman, Thomas P. Cote and his wife Pamela, 4 granddaughters, Jade McKinnon Cote, Sophie Cote, Paige Cote, and Jordan McKinnon Cote. Marilyn is also survived by siblings Robert Benson, Mickey Adams, Ronald Benson, Andrew Belisle and Beverly Jackson, Lori Black, Julie Johnson, Eric Ducharme, Errol Ducharme, Larry Ducharme, a brother in law Mike Cote and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will he held on Friday, August 4th at 5PM. Visiting hours for family and friends will begin at 3PM until the time of the service at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street in Springvale. In Lieu of flowers contributions in her memory may be made to the Gosnell Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Road Scarborough, ME 04074. Condolences can be expressed on Marilyn’s memorial page.