Marilyn Diane Nigh-Fox
Marilyn Diane Nigh-Fox, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 27, 2024, joining her Lord and Savior. Born on February 26, 1935, in Spokane, Washington, Marilyn’s journey through life was full of love, adventure, and a deep devotion to her family.
Marilyn’s early years were spent in Spokane before she moved to Redlands, California, at age 14. She pursued her education at San Bernardino City College and devoted over 30 years to a fulfilling career in the medical field. It was at a Halloween party that she met Donald Nigh, and their love blossomed into a 46-year marriage. Together, they raised four wonderful children—Gregory, Laurie Kay, David, and Phillip—in Yucaipa, California, before moving to Santa Barbara in 1969.
In Santa Barbara, Marilyn found her true calling as a travel enthusiast. She owned and operated Cruise Holidays of Santa Barbara, sharing her passion for exploration with others. Marilyn’s adventurous spirit led her to sail on more than 125 cruises and visit over 150 countries.
After 46 years of a loving marriage, Donald went to be with the Lord in the year 2000. Eventually, Marilyn found renewed companionship and 15 year marriage to John Fox. Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family, including her seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Marilyn also loved all of her extended family through John Fox. Her love for all of them knew no bounds, and she took immense pride in each of their accomplishments.
In her final years at The Samarkand, Marilyn embraced her vibrant community with the same enthusiasm she had for life. Her infectious smile, warm heart, and unwavering faith touched everyone she met. Marilyn was also very witty, and that revealed a lighter side of life, reminding us that laughter really is good medicine. She had a unique ability to make us laugh, often with just a clever remark, and her humor brought warmth and lightness to our hearts.
A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held on October 20, 2024, at the Cabrillo Pavilion Center, 1118 East Cabrillo Boulevard. The service will begin at 2:00 PM, with an opportunity for friends and family to gather and share memories starting at 1:30 PM. We all know of Marilyn’s passion for adventure, admiration of the ocean and love of Aloha! She has requested that, if possible, we dress in some Hawaiian attire during her memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marilyn’s memory to The Samarkand Benevolent Fund. The Benevolent Fund is near to Marilyn’s heart and the gifts go to support those in need in their final years at The Samarkand.
Marilyn’s spirit will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy of love and adventure will continue to inspire all who knew her.