Former School Secretary and Librarian Marilyn Gingerich Dies at 79

Marilyn Louise Gingerich of Millersburg died on December 17, 2025. She was 79. Born October 1, 1946 in Killbuck, she married Merle Gingerich in 1966 and spent decades involved in local faith and civic life.

Gingerich worked in the guidance office at West Holmes High School where she supported students and staff in administrative and counseling related tasks. She later served as a librarian at the Holmes County District Public Library, where she contributed to local literacy efforts and public access to information. She was also a longtime member of Millersburg Christian Church, participating in the congregation that serves much of the Millersburg community.

Her survivors include her husband Merle, daughters Maribeth Biddison and Melissa Raber, and son Matthew Gingerich. Their spouses are Mark Biddison, Daniel Raber, and Jennifer Gingerich. Grandchildren listed by the family are Micah Biddison, Meagan Brito, Jakob Gingerich and Scout Gingerich.

The family notice included details about service and funeral arrangements, and expressed thanks to caregivers who assisted the family. Those arrangements reflected the family connections they maintained across Millersburg and surrounding communities.

Gingerich's roles in the school and the county library made her a familiar presence to multiple generations of local residents. School staff and library patrons often rely on long term employees for continuity, institutional memory and practical assistance. Her work in student services and in the library supported routine operations that matter to families, educators and residents who use county resources.

Her passing underscores the ways in which individual staff members contribute to the fabric of small town civic life. Families and institutions in Holmes County will feel the loss of someone who spent a lifetime in service to local education, faith and public access to information.