Marilyn M. (Rippo) Haynes

Marilyn M. Haynes, age 71, of Dunellen, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 4, 2025, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ.

Born on May 24, 1953, in Newark, NJ, Marilyn was the daughter of Ralph and Florence Rippo. In 1974, she married the love of her life, Ronald L. Haynes. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion, raising two children, Ronnie and Kim, and later becoming proud grandparents to four cherished grandchildren.

Marilyn's love for her family was the heart of everything she did. A gracious and generous hostess, she opened her home with warmth and kindness. Her passion for cooking brought joy to those around her, especially through the big Italian dinners she prepared with love. Thanksgiving was a particularly special holiday to her - it was the one she proudly chose to host each year. Her home would be filled with the comforting aromas of home-cooked food, laughter, and the presence of the people she loved most, creating cherished memories that will live on forever.

She had a remarkable ability to turn ordinary moments into lifelong memories. Whether it was family summer vacations spent by the ocean in Wildwood, NJ, or spirited weekends playing poker with loved ones, she made each occasion special. Marilyn loved the excitement of the casinos, drawn to the lights, sounds, and sense of adventure. She enjoyed playing the slot machines, always hopeful and excited for the next win. Time spent at the casino with friends and family was something she cherished, creating unforgettable memories.

A passionate football fan, Marilyn's loyalty belonged to the New England Patriots. Game days were events filled with excitement and cheering.

Her compassion extended deeply to animals, especially dogs. A lifelong animal lover, Marilyn's home was never without a furry companion. She rescued and nurtured countless dogs over the years, giving them not just a home, but unconditional love. Her children grew up surrounded by these fur babies, each one adored and spoiled with affection and treats.

Marilyn made many lifelong friends and touched countless hearts through her active involvement with the VFW and American Legion, where her warmth, generosity, and sense of community left a lasting impression. She found great joy in giving back, always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer words of encouragement. Fondly known by many as “Mama Haynes,” she was loved for her personality, humor, blunt advice, and honest opinions, which came from a place of deep care and wisdom. She also enjoyed spending time at the bar with friends, sipping a drink, listening to music, sharing stories, and opening pull-tab cards.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, Ronald L. Haynes; her son, Ronnie J. Haynes and his wife Betsy; her daughter, Kimberly Giacomini and her husband Michael; her four cherished grandchildren, Zoë, Nicole, Elon, and Eli; and her brothers, John Rippo and Ralph Rippo, along with a host of extended relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved sister, Jo-Ann Mazur. Also surviving is her dear pet, Stella.

The family wishes to express their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Anne North, a retired nurse, lifelong friend, and an Angel to Marilyn. Anne’s unwavering love, selflessness, and boundless compassion brought comfort, peace, and stability to her dear friend. Anne’s friendship was a priceless gift that will always be remembered and appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Marilyn's memory to Rescue Ridge—a nonprofit animal rescue organization that held a special place in her heart, and where she found her beloved dog, Stella. https://rescueridge.com/donate

A viewing will be held at Sheenan Funeral Home, 233 Dunellen Ave, Dunellen, NJ, on Wednesday, May 7, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, 317 1st St, Dunellen, NJ, on Thursday, May 8, at 11:00 AM.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn M. (Rippo) Haynes, please visit our floral store.