Marilyn R. Manning (affectionately known as “Lynn” to those who knew and loved her), a gifted dog whisperer whose reputation was legendary, passed away on March 3rd at Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital following a stroke. She was 79. Born on June 20, 1945, in London, England, she was the cherished daughter of the late Tom and Maisie Manning. Marilyn’s life was a vibrant tapestry of adventure, service, and unwavering love for family and friends
Marilyn’s journey began across the Atlantic, where she spent her early years before becoming a vital member of the Phoenicia community for almost four decades. It was during a thrilling safari in Africa where she met the love of her life, William “Bill” Foley. Together, they shared a bond filled with love and exploration.
Marilyn was predeceased by her brother Terry and sister Barbara Pickett, and is survived by her devoted husband, Bill and a host of adoring nieces and nephews: Paul & Vicky, Jess & Olly, Matt & Sally, Tommy & Jack, Chris & Tania, Mark & Rachel, and Maddie Dillon & Joe.
Professionally, Marilyn dedicated two decades of her life as a skilled dental technician, but her nurturing spirit later led her to her true calling, “Dogsaplenty,” a business where she provided loving care to dogs for twenty-five years. Marilyn’s compassion for animals extended beyond her immediate circle, as she also supported Jane Goodall’s endeavors and wildlife protection.
Marilyn, an avid outdoorswoman, had an unparalleled passion for adventure and the natural world. She was a world traveler who had visited six continents, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and hiked to the base camp at Mount Everest. Her love for purple was more than a favorite color—it reflected her vibrant spirit and utmost dedication to the causes she held dear.
Marilyn’s commitment to her community was evident through her active support of the MF Whitney Hose Co., the Phoenicia Library, Shandaken Dog Shelter, and The Phoenicia Playhouse. Her strong sense of community was a beacon that inspired others to engage and contribute to the world around them.
Marilyn’s legacy is one of love, adventure, and community. She lived with a sense of purpose and joy that touched everyone she encountered. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by the countless lives she impacted, human and canine alike.
As we bid farewell to Marilyn, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey well-traveled, and a heart that was never afraid to love deeply. She will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and those fortunate enough to have known her. Marilyn’s spirit will continue to soar high above the mountains she once climbed, reminding all of us to live life to the fullest and to cherish the beauty surrounding us.
Her memorial will take place March 16th, 2025, at 11 a.m. at The Phoenicia Playhouse, followed by a gathering for (human) friends and family at the Catamount restaurant in Mt. Tremper. There will be an opportunity to gather with canine friends later this year, as a “Magical Marilyn Woodland Dog Walk” is being planned for June.
The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to The Phoenicia Food Pantry, Planned Parenthood, or Jane Goodall Institute You may share a special memory, condolence, or photo below or on Marilyn’s Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com
Donate
Remembrance Wall
My name is Amanda Mansfield and I am Phil Mansfield’s sister and Barbara Mansfield’s sister-in-law. I came to stay with them for a bit at the end of 2022.
I met Marilyn through them. I only spent time with her for a couple of months before I left the state, but I felt happy, relaxed and understood in her presence.
I had a great time riding in her dog-mobile, stuffed in the hatchback with her crew of wonderful, silly, chaotic dogs (their butts and faces shoved right in my face 😀), walking through the forest with her, and hanging out in her home relaxing.
We talked honestly and deeply, we shared laughs and life lessons, and I will remember her very fondly.
God’s speed dear Lynn, our love and thoughts are with you and all the family. Goodbye dear cousin until we meet again, Debbie, Richard, Josie, Noah, Poppy, Joel, Toby Jeremy and Carrick.
please see additional photos added 3/19 by sara
My eulogy:
A Tribute to Marilyn “Lynn” Manning
It was through Baci that my life intertwined with Marilyn’s. I moved home from New Mexico and was referred to her for whenever I might need boarding. When I first walked into her house so many years ago, I was struck by the amount of dog beds that lined her great room.
“This is incredible” I shared and our dog loving hearts were bonded in that precise moment. We stood at her kitchen counter, surrounded by dogs, while she made us tea. It was in those moments that we also began a friendship that is already missed so much.
It wasn’t long after that, that Baci and I accompanied her on her iconic walk in the woods to the lake that she so loved and shared with so many. Dogs, that is. We often joked about how we preferred dogs to humans however the reality is (and just look around) that Marilyn touched the hearts and souls of as many, if not more, humans.
While we often hear the words in describing another, “they were unique,” the reality is, Marilyn truly was. She was an angel on Earth among us now an angel all around us. She was one of the kindest most generous, of means and Spirit, people I have ever met.
She had a connection with dogs that earned her the title “dog whisperer.”
At one point we spoke about me working with her. While that never panned out Marilyn, after seeing my setup, encouraged me to follow suit. I couldn’t be doing what I’m doing today had it not been for Marilyn’s encouragement and continued support.
We so often laughed around dog stories.
My mantra became “What Would Marilyn Do?”
“Marilyn, did you ever have a dog that was just too much dog for you?”
“Marilyn, do you have dogs that you love but are challenged by the owners?”
“Marilyn, do you ever want to take a break?”
I’ll miss her guidance but am so grateful for all she shared with me.
Walking with all the dogs in the woods I always marveled at how she kept them together. She was their pack leader. They knew it and responded accordingly.
As a matter of fact, on a few occasions, and only a few, I experienced Marilyn’s “wrath”. Now I use the word “wrath” which actually has no place in my description because her “wrath” was just a stern look, or a rather brief scolding or irritation on her part. BUT it felt like wrath because she rarely expressed it. It was in those moments that I felt like one of her dogs! and understood her canine communication skills. If I had a tail, it would have been tucked between my legs. She earned respect.
I once, before she put the sign on her door, rang the porch bell to an avalanche of barking dogs in the house. Just her face, when she opened the door, could have stopped a burglar in his tracks.
Another time I was late in dropping Baci off and although I texted her that did not go over well. She ran a tight ship. She handled us all in her sweet, gentle manner.
Baci and I visited Marilyn at Mid-Hudson hospital on one of her last days. I knew how important it would be for her, although on life support, to feel the essence of a dog next to her as she was on her journey over the Rainbow Bridge. And yes, I believe Marilyn may be the only human allowed to cross THAT bridge, and I know she is being welcomed by so many doggies whose lives she’s touched.
Baci squished into her and her heartbeat increased as seen on the monitor.
I know we are all grieving for the loss of this special woman. Marilyn always laughed when Baci and I howled together so I’m going to ask Baci, if he will, to share with you his howl to Marilyn.
(Baci followed my lead and not only did he howl but everyone there , maybe 200 people, howled with us!)
We have only known each other for a short time but I am truly grateful for the times that we have had our video chats. The memories of those will last for my lifetime. Until we meet again ❤️
Dear Marilyn has left a deep hole in our hearts. She was the dog whisperer and second Mom to our 3 dogs for over 20 years. First with Cooper, who as a hunter was impossible to stay with the pack until Marilyn devised a crazy contraption over his back that clanked! Before Cooper and our second dog Lulu passed, she made sure to visit with them one last time. We always looked forward to her videos, sharing them with friends and family. We told her she should submit them to YouTube, especially the ones where all the dogs kept piling out front and back. It reminded us of the clowns coming out of the Volkswagen in the circus. Marilyn can never be replaced, but we are so grateful to have had her in our lives.
Barbara & Ken Silver
My condolences to Bill and the family, Peace be with you.
Marilyn was a genuine treasure that touched many hearts. I was fortunate to meet and get to know her through my husband Kenny. Marilyn, hired Kenny to help her with yard work and many jobs, for many years. She took him “under her wing “, she loved and praised the work he did for her. He loved her like she was his “mother “. Now, I’m sure they are reminiscing in heaven and “ over the rainbow bridge “
She loved animals as well, a dog whisperer and cared for and loved many dogs in her home boarding.
An Angel, a friend, hard worker, kind, generous, loving, full of life and REAL, she had true qualities you didn’t find too often anymore in people nowadays. She will truly be missed by many. RIP Marilyn
Marilyn, God you will be missed by all us humans and dogs that loved you to death. My Maggie’s face would light up and she would bark out of happiness when she heard she was going to your house. I just can’t believe you won’t be here in body…but I know you will always be here in spirit. I was in India on March 2 talking about you and sharing your Facebook page with friends and family, little to know this would happen to you the next day. My kids (Sean and Kasey) and I will miss you terribly. Please come back to this earth soon, there are many of us and dogs waiting for you. Love you always. Murad.
Our daring lynn
Our darling Lynn ….we didn’t get together enough… we were Cousins… so we had that connection that was always immediately there whenever we did meet up…. Dominic Sophia & I had the most wonderful time with you at your ‘Doggy’ home in the USA…We had never seen a Dog-Swimming-Pool before! being dog lovers too we were so impressed…..
You left the Uk when us Forsyth gals were very young but I do remember that we were in awe of you heading out to America on your own… & to top it all you were a beautiful young Girl!!!… You made a great life for yourself… on your terms… how wonderful ♥️
Sleep well with all your Doggy Angel’s darling…. ♥️My love always….Julie X
Darling Lynn…. We didn’t see each other often but when we did there was an immediate loving warmth …Our Cousin 🩷 lots of lovely early memories then you left for America… we were in awe of you… such a brave thing for a young girl to do! Your Mum…Maisy…was so Wonderful.. Debbie Laura & I used to call her Auntie Mum… we adored her… & dear Barbie & Terry… So wished we had had more time together…
Dominic Sophia & I had the best time when we stayed with you in your lovely ‘Doggy’ home… (as we are all Dog crazy)… it was like being in Heaven…. Which is where you are surrounded by love now…🩷 Sleep well darling… Love you 🩷
Dear Marilyn has left a deep hole in our hearts. She was the dog whisperer and second Mom to our 3 dogs for over 20 years. First with Cooper, who as a hunter was impossible to stay with the pack until Marilyn devised a crazy contraption over his back that clanked! Before Cooper and our second dog Lulu passed, she made sure to visit with them one last time. We always looked forward to her videos, sharing them with friends and family. We told her she should submit them to YouTube, especially the ones where all the dogs kept piling out front and back. It reminded us of the clowns coming out of the Volkswagen in the circus. Marilyn can never be replaced, but we are so grateful to have had her in our lives.
Dear, sweet, kind Lynn, I am so sorry that you are no longer with us. Your adventurous spirit and love of dogs will live on in my heart. Love you
I wish you sunlight, warmth and energy. So very hard to believe you have left us. All these years of memories, The Woodstock Tennis Club, Cathy Clancy, USTA League Tennis, Kingston Tennis at various courts and clubs, so many fond memories of your pets and your care of my little ones Josie and Sookie. I tried always to make extra clam chowder, other soups to bring you. I had just finished making some but found out you were gone, May your next journey be easy and lovely. You will always be remembered in my heart as a truly warm and very remarkable lovely lady.
more photos
comments later
We will miss you Marilyn, thank you for years of wonderful interactions. Ray, Roberta, & Mike
Miss you so very much!
Love Gracie, Penny and Barry
Day 1. Walk through the woods
do not come close to the reality
of your being.
But as you lie
suspended,
as you wait to gift your body,
Words from here
reach for you there
wave to you
across the veil.
I see you there,
walking beside me,
dogs in all directions
making our rounds,
sounds of birds’ calls,
or footfalls in snow,
occasional shouts
of names to bring
some wanderers
back to the pack.
The dogs already gone
will be eager for the walk
when you get there.
They will have assembled in the
picture-perfect spot
for the shot by the pond,
or in the back of the dogmobile
mugging for your camera.
There, too, another time,
we stand on the porch,
when a phone just won’t do.
take most-needed time, face to face,
and a long embrace when parting.
I know you have come to visit tonight
Not yet a ghost, but on your way to that too.
I am not haunted by my grief just yet,
too powerful in this life
to think we end with death.
and held each other,
we felt lucky in
good company.
We talked about what mattered.
I brought meals.
You lifted Sunny
into your car until
you couldn’t anymore.
You were there at the moment
she passed on
to the next realm.
You were the one
my husband called
and called
when his brain malfunctioned.
You pretended it was
just a friendly conversation
when he finally reached you.
He began,
“I don’t know why I called,”
and you responded,
“It’s always good to hear from you.”
The history of friendship.
like your nature,
too vast to capture here.
Too far away to
land at your side,
I must abide this vigil
for your transition
with these words
of recollection,
a reflection on
magnificent you.
Dear Marilyn, I’ll never forget the sound of your voice or your gracious smile. You are a gem. Fly free, dear sweet soul!
From our vantage point on Main St. one of the joys of living in Phoenicia was to see Marilyn and her station wagon with windows full of dog’s heads go driving by. I kept meaning to ask her to let me know when she’d be going by so I could get the video camera out. Sadly that film is only in my head now but it will always be very vivid. Losing Marilyn is like losing a big part of what makes Phoenicia great and we will always miss her and remember her fondly.
Our sincere thoughts to the family.
I was so blessed to know Marilyn as a master gardener and an amazing dog whisperer! Her flowers always looked wonderful, and I will remember her every year when I replant the canna lilies that she gave me. She was always so happy to share them and pass any donations along to the Phoenicia library. Marilyn certainly had a way with dogs! Her house and property were surely a paradise to her canine friends. I used to tell her that she should make a calendar with all the incredible photos that she took of the dogs in her charge. She knew how we dog owners would worry when we left our fur babies. She was so reassuring and would text photos and updates to ease our minds. But, really, what dog wouldn’t be happy staying with Marilyn? She was a very special woman and contributed so much to the community. She will be missed, but not forgotten, by all who knew her. My deepest condolences to Marilyn‘s family and loved ones.
Marilyn you were one the kindest gentle souls I have ever know oh how I loved seeing you at Brio’s and our visits I just loved you I will miss you dearly♥️♥️
To my Dear Friend who looked after and loved my Golden Retriever Traci . She was truly “a one of a kind” lady who I will never forget!!
Rest in Peace….. Love,
Marilyn asked me why I was crying the first time I left Minnie and Milo with her and I told her I didn’t want them to be afraid or worry without me……she said “Honey, I have dogs…they won’t want to come home. ” She was right. My two large dogs lived 17 years largely because of her two hour walks twice a day and all that love. They are all together now. Bless you, my friend and continue to soar.
There is a hole in the fabric of our neighborhood. In your memory, Marilyn, we will reach out to each other, extend kindnesses, sit for each other’s pets, share meals, bulbs, stories–but patches are reminders of the hole. There was never anyone like you dear Marilyn.
Dear Lynn, We will miss you so much. You were a decades long friend to our family and so beloved. Kristine, Missy, and I so admired your adventurous spirit and kind heart. The world just lost a beautiful person. Our condolences go out to your family.
Marilyn and I met ~8 years ago when I moved home. I was immediately connected with her through my dog, Baci. We became fast friends. Heart and soul connected. And we talked about me working with her. Instead of that, once she saw my setup, she encouraged me to follow in her footsteps. Our friendship intertwined as then colleagues. I learned a lot from her. We shared constantly with laughs and challenges. The last picture in this video is me mimicking what Marilyn taught me. I have a hole in my heart.
I met Marilyn twice: once for a walk in the woods and once to train in her beautiful yard. Those couple of meetings with her left their mark. She had a loving presence and seeing her interacting with the dogs–they just loved her. Thank you Marilyn for the gift of your spirit.
In memory of my magical friend, a being of love, strength, and curiosity. A warrior, adored by creatures, flowers, trees, woods, and a community that will cherish Marilyn for all of our days.
May her legacy of love and kindness give us strength to carry on without her.
I miss you Marilyn, and fell in love with you from the moment we met
We first met Marilyn in 1981. We have been good friends ever since. She was an amazing person who
loved her job taking care of a wide variety of dogs including our YorkiePoo Leo. He loved being with her as did all the other dogs in her care. She loved and bonded with Leo so much over the years that when he passed she put a teaspoon of his ashes in a smoothie and drank it so he would be with her forever! Marilyn will be greatly missed by all that had the privilege of knowing her. A true gem of a person!
I met Marilyn in 1979, we played a lot of tennis together, and we shared a cottage at base of the Platte Cove. It was amazing to watch her walk into the surrounding woodlands, with a string of cats, all in a line following. There are those that have a certain affinity for our animal friends, and Marilyn was certainly one of the gifted few. We went to England for for Christmas, in 1980, where I met her family. There was, Maisie, Barbie, Chris, and other family members. Later we got two, Vizslas; Ginger and Daniels; two great dogs. So we go back a very long way, and I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn that she passed. Marilyn, was a kind, caring and generous person, and lover of all creatures. My thoughts are with her family and friends as they go through this sad and difficult time.
With deepest sympathy. She was an extraordinary woman.
Mr. & Mrs. Donal Maguire
We first met because of our love for dogs, we became friends because of our love of life. While I enjoyed working for you. It never felt like a job or you were my boss. We just hit it off. You are an awesome beam of life you will be missed by me and so many May God hold you near and dear in his loving arms So long love Condolences Christopher & so many friends& especially dogs, who will be meeting you at the rainbow bridge. Mary..
Marilyn was such a remarkable person and a special “ Dog Whisperer.” We never forgot the first time she watched our yellow lab Mickey who on first visit jumped in her pond that contained fish. No problem she said. I’ll take care of that, and from then on he was a regular at Marilyn’s. After Mickey passed she took care of our other Labs with love and kindness. Truly a very special person❤️
Marilyn was a gem. Someone I will always cherish for her love of life, depth of feeling and for never letting me forget my kinship to my fellow animals.
I say I remember but really I was just a little tiny new born baby, when aunt Lynn came and visited me in the UK down in the Deep South west of England a little place called Cornwall, she gave me a brotch that I was able to have when I was 21, but well you see I found it before I was 21. I will always keep to remember her and always feel her spirits guiding me through the rest of my life!! I messaged her on the 12 of Feb to arrange me to see her in the States after working away in America for a week, and was about to book my flights when I had a phone call from my Lovely dad Marc for him to say that he had bad news and I will never forget, I was so shocked and so sad I just didn’t know what to say , but now I do Aunt Lynn I love you so much and will miss you too , but I know that you are looking down on us The Manning’s , the Picketts and knowing how proud you are of us !! Anyways I know that up there you are with grandad Terry singing and dancing ❤️
My dearest Lynn. I love you and will miss our texts from ‘across the pond’. May God keep you close until I see you again. With love and peace, your cousin Sue xxx
The world has lost a special human. She had a gift with dogs and was such a kind soul. Our dog, Oreo, absolutely loved her. There was one time that it seemed he debated if he should go home or stay with dear Marilyn. I hope they found each other in heaven and had a glorious reunion. I send my condolences to all who knew Marilyn because truly to know her was to love her.
I will always cherish the memory of the deep, soul connection I shared with Marilyn over more than 30 years. She was one of a kind. To paraphrase the words of the song from Wicked, “Because I knew her, I have been changed for good.”
Marilyn, avid adventurer, explorer of our beautiful earth, inner explorer of her own depths. I have tears as I write. I loved her and give thanks to have known her vibrant spirit and deeply loving heart. The warmth in her eyes and her beautiful smile stay with me always. I love you, dear friend.
What a dear, dear person – I feel so fortunate to have known Marilyn and I will miss her sooooo much. I will never forget her. My condolences to her many loved ones….
My 12 years living in Woodstock was made richer by knowing Marilyn. Both my dogs were a part of her family. The first visit I brought my Yellow Lab, Daisy, upon picking up I was met by Marilyn who claimed, “That Daisy – she is some bitch!” LOL I knew immediately we were going to be friends. We gardened together. I painted her “Missy” we had many long convos over the years. I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing but I know she has transitioned well and met by numerous dogs she cared for and loved. Her memory our blessing and may she rest in peace with all her furry friends.
Dearest Marilyn,
you were always so kind and loving towards Sophie and she appreciated your magnificent garden of Eden to run around in and play with the other dogs there. I know you took special care of her, knowing that she was deaf because your heart was just full of kindness. A great soul has quietly walked among us, and when we think of you we will always smile, remembering your kind and loving nature.
We are so saddened by her loss. She made our lives better but especially made our Gracie’s better. She had the opportunity to be with a very special person and her pack. I will always remember how her doggie videos amazed us and alway made us smile. A big hole in our lives. 💕
My 12 years living in Woodstock was made richer by knowing Marilyn. Both my dogs were a part of her family. The first visit I brought my Yellow Lab, Daisy, upon picking up I was met by Marilyn who claimed, “That Daisy – she is some bitch!” LOL I knew immediately we were going to be friends. We gardened together. I painted her “Missy” we had many long convos over the years. I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing but I know she has transitioned well and met by numerous dogs she cared for and loved. Her memory our blessing and may she rest in peace with all her furry friends.
Dearest Marilyn, you were always so kind and loving towards Sophie and she appreciated your magnificent garden of Eden to run around in and play with the other dogs there. I know you took special care of her, knowing that she was deaf because your heart was just full of kindness. A great soul has quietly walked among us, and when we think of you we will always smile, remembering your kind and loving nature.
Marilyn and I were close friends for over 30 years. I am so grateful for all the time we spent together and will cherish her memory always. Rest in peace, dear Marilyn. You loved well and were well loved.
My dog Tuca had been part of Marilyns pack for 15 years. She started as a pup at 9 months twice a week and when I was out of town on vacation. This is old for a lab and I totally credit her days with Marilyn for her extended life. I last spent time with Marilyn in the late fall when we did the dog hike together in order to spread Tucas ashes where she loved to swim and play. Who else would think of that loving tribute but Marilyn?
Dear friend; you were one of my favorite people. We met over love of dogs and grew a relationship. Ill miss you not being amongst us anymore but will always treasure our funny and serious times together. God bless you and keep-you always in his kind embrace. Always, Mary..
Marilyn’s smile shines in my heart. Whether it was seeing her on the tennis court. Playing with her dogs or sitting having lunch in her Garden of Eden. She was nothing short of fiesty. And a blessing to all who knew her.
Our dear friend Marilyn, how sad we are that you are gone. Lou is so grateful that he recently spoked to you and gave you a call 2 weeks ago. You have been such friends for years, he was thinking of you and was home sick couple of weeks ago and called you. You bs together as you usually did and he was so happy to talk to you one last Time even though it broke his heart to find out you were gone. We both loved you so much for many, many years our friend. I am thinking of the first time I met you when you were a beautiful long haired blond dental assistant at dr. Golds office! “OK Love” don’t worry ! We’ve know you since Nick was a baby He’s 43, so at least 40 yrs! Lou put your pool in and other work on your property, had to laugh “ Lou said OMG the new pool is full of dogs!! Love it!! I just will miss you like so many,many others. the most beautiful special kind woman I have ever met and had the pleasure of calling a friend. We will always love you and think of how fortunate we were to call you a friend 🩷 Love you always, Jacqui & Lou
My dear sweet Marilyn. I Met You in 1973 in Woodstock and fell in love with your wonderful personality. It’s been an honor to know you all these years and I’m going to miss you terribly. I’m so sorry we didn’t get to have our last conversation few days before you passed. I love you
Marilyn was a gem. Kind, smart, funny and loved by so many, including me. I will always remember seeing her car drive by with 9,000 dogs all behaving. I am grateful to have known her and so sorry the world has lost a beautiful soul.