Marilyn W. Goldman

Marilyn W. Goldman, 94, of Norfolk, passed away April 14, 2023. She was the second of two children born to Abraham and Dora Wolowitz of Shenandoah, PA.

Sent to Norfolk by her father after obtaining her journalism degree from Penn State University, she met and married Daniel Goldman where they raised three sons, Dean, Jeff and Lon.

Never lacking an opinion, a pointed question, nor shying from a juicy debate, Marilyn’s favorite dinner course was always politics. An avid and vocal progressive, she came well-prepared with facts and was passionate in her advocacy.

Unusual for her time, Marilyn was focused and driven to be a successful businesswoman. She headed an employment agency. She was editor of The UJF News. Later she became editor to The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Magazine; which evolved into the regional Chamber magazine Tidewater Virginian, where she was appointed publisher. While retired and serving on the board of Family Services, she was named by her board peers to one last career move, interim CEO.

Though she won many awards and recognitions for her work successes, her greatest passion and pride were her grandchildren Haley, Ari, Madeleine and Brett. She was cheerleader, counselor and role model to them. All were golden in her eyes, as was she to them.

Marilyn loved a good party, family gathering and Jewish holiday celebration where she would engage in her usual pointed questions and provocative conversations. She also loved a good scotch and large cup of vanilla ice cream. On doctor’s orders from her favorite physician, her daughter-in-law Ilene, she had one each daily. She attributed this prescription to her longevity and health.

There will be a graveside service at Forest Lawn, Tuesday, April 18 at noon. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to your favorite charity.