Marilyn Hooton passed away Thursday June 6th at Lassen House in Red Bluff California.
She was born in Hollister California on June 22, 1932.
She was very proud of her California heritage, being descended from Maria Bernal who came as a two year old member of the De Anza Spanish colonial expedition, arriving in San Francisco in June of 1776.
She graduated from Hollister High School where she was a cheerleader for the Haybalers. She attended the College of Notre Dame de Namur in Belmont California.
She married Bill Hooton Sr. to become a ranch wife. During their marriage they lived in various towns and cities following Bill’s career with the California Department of Food and Agriculture. While in Chico, she earned her master’s degree in music from CSUC and taught in the music department for several years. While in Sacramento, she taught piano.
She was in the Sacramento Cathedral choir and had the privilege of singing in the Sistine Chapel in the presence of Pope John Paul II.
She was an officer and organist for the Sacraments Elks lodge #6. She was also a past president of the California Music Teachers Association.
She is survived by daughter Lynn Strang (Ed) and son Bill Hooton Jr. (Karin). Grandchildren Rachel Simpson (Jeff), Carisa Hertz (Corey), and Bryce Hooton (Anya). Great grandchildren Christopher Simpson, Hunter Strang, Rikala Rix, Kai Hertz and Kira Hooton.
There will be a Catholic mass and graveside service in Hollister at a future date to be determined.
Contact Oscar Hooton to learn more about when the mass and service will be via email:Â whootdvm@gmail.com