Marilyn Denise Barlow

Marilyn Denise Barlow, lovingly known as “Moppy,” was born on November 15, 1953, in Plainfield to the late William Sr. and Elnora Taylor Franklin. As the second of seven children, she grew up surrounded by family — a value she would carry in her heart for the rest of her life.

Marilyn began her education in the Plainfield Public School system before moving to Scotch Plains, where she graduated from Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School in 1971. Even as a young woman, Marilyn carried herself with warmth, kindness, and quiet strength, qualities that would define her life.

On September 16, 1972, she married her teenage sweetheart, Edward Philip Barlow, in Scotch Plains, New Jersey. Their love story began in youth and blossomed into a lifetime of devotion. From this union came three beautiful blessings: Edward III, Pamela, and Eric. Marilyn’s world revolved around her family. She was their protector, their safe place, their loudest cheerleader, and their steady source of encouragement. Whether at games, recitals, graduations, or everyday moments, Moppy showed up, fully, proudly, and with unconditional love.

Marilyn’s heart was truly made of gold. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for. She poured herself into others — spending time with her elders, nurturing the youth, and offering help without hesitation. If someone needed company, she was there. If someone needed a ride, she was ready. If someone simply needed kindness, she gave it freely. Shopping trips, shared meals, visits to friends, or small thoughtful gestures — Marilyn found joy in brightening someone else’s day.

A devoted woman of faith, Marilyn was a faithful member of Fountain Baptist Church. Her faith grounded her, strengthened her, and guided her in loving others the way God intended. She was a servant at heart.

Marilyn loved life. She loved sports, especially basketball, football, and baseball, proudly cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Mets. She enjoyed fashion, music, dancing, and attending concerts. She cherished time at the casino with friends, always delighted by the fun and fellowship. And true to who she was, any blessing or perk she received, she found a way to share.

Marilyn began her career at the Plainfield Post Office before transitioning to Lyons Veterans Administration Hospital, first working in the mailroom. Within just four months, her dedication and work ethic led her to a new role in inpatient and outpatient coding. She faithfully served for 40 years as a Medical Records Technician and Coder, retiring on December 31, 2024. Her commitment to excellence and quiet perseverance were reflections of the dependable woman her family and colleagues knew and loved.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William Sr. and Elnora Franklin, and her brothers, William “Billy” Franklin and Anthony “Tony” Franklin.

She leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Cherishing her memory are: her lifelong companion, Edward P. Barlow; her devoted children, Pamela M. Barlow, Edward P. Barlow III, and Eric T. Barlow, all of Plainfield, NJ; her treasured grandchildren, Arianna Diaz, Kayla Harris, and Elijah Barlow; her precious great-grandchild, Kameron Woodard; her dear Aunt Barbara Riley of Philadelphia, PA; her loving sisters, Cheryl Franklin of Plainfield, NJ, and Rhonda Franklin of Scotch Plains, NJ; her brothers, Duane Franklin of South Plainfield, NJ, and David Franklin of Memphis, TN; one godson, Desaun Franklin-Garris; her extended Barlow family — Jackie Barlow-Holmes, Rose Worthy, Saundra, Lorraine, Delores, Debra, Guy, and Rodney — and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives were made richer by her presence.

Marilyn’s life was a testimony of love in action. She did not simply speak kindness — she lived it. She did not simply love, she showed it. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the warmth of her spirit, the sound of her encouragement, and the memory of her unwavering devotion will remain forever in the hearts of those she touched.

Her love was her legacy. And that legacy will never fade