Marilyn Rae Wisely

Marilyn Rae Wisely (Marchbanks), 84, of Boise, Idaho, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Meridian, just ten days shy of her 85th birthday—a celebration she was eagerly anticipating.

Marilyn was born on July 31, 1940, in Nampa, Idaho, to Marion and Velma Marchbanks. She was raised on her parents’ farm in the Deer Flat area, on the “southside” of Nampa, as she fondly recalled. Marilyn attended a one-room schoolhouse in her early years and later graduated from Nampa High School. She pursued higher education at Boise Junior College for one year before beginning her career.

In July of 1959, while working for the Nampa Water Company, Marilyn met the love of her life, Larry Wisely. Their first date was to the Idaho Stampede, and just a few months later, they were married on February 26, 1960. When asked how long they had been married, Marilyn would proudly smile and say, “65 years!” Larry always attributed their long-lasting bond to going to bed without arguments—and always with a goodnight kiss.

Together, Marilyn and Larry raised two daughters, LaRae and Vicki, and built a life rooted in love, music, and family in both Nampa and Boise, Idaho.

Marilyn was a gifted piano teacher for 16 years, instructing up to 65 students at a time and even maintaining a waiting list. Her love of music carried into every aspect of her life. After retiring from teaching, she dedicated many years of service to the Boise School District, where she worked as a secretary—first for the school psychologists, and eventually for the Assistant Superintendent. She was known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and immense pride in her work.

She is survived by her loving husband, Larry Wisely; daughters LaRae Wisely Nuxoll and Vicki Weckwerth (Barry); granddaughters Kylie Nuxoll (Mitch Bourner), Stephanie Woods (Matthew), Nicole Schank (Jeff), and Kristi Weckwerth; and three cherished great-grandsons, Gabe Bourner, Cooper Schank and Rhett Schank. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Velma Marchbanks; her brother, Norman Marchbanks, and his wife, Shirley; Larry’s parents, William Wisely and Utha (Hall) Wisely; Larry’s sister, Betty Johnson (Sumner); and his brother, Don Wisely.

Family was the center of Marilyn’s life. She was a steadfast supporter of her daughters and granddaughters, from 4-H projects to school events. As “Ggma,” she took great joy in her great-grandsons and never missed a chance to be part of their lives.

Marilyn’s creativity was unmatched. She had a passion for sewing, knitting, and crocheting—often crafting matching outfits for herself, her daughters, and her granddaughters. One of her favorite memories was teaching all four granddaughters to crochet, a legacy proudly carried on by at least two of them.

A dedicated Army Reserve wife, Marilyn was actively involved in the Officers’ Club, even serving in a leadership role. She and Larry loved attending formals—him in uniform, and her in a beautiful gown she likely made herself. They also enjoyed square dancing, often wearing matching outfits that Marilyn created. One memorable birthday celebration featured a backyard square dance party, complete with two full squares and a live caller.

Marilyn’s love of music extended into her church life at Whitney United Methodist Church, where she was part of the music team, accompanied the children’s choir on piano, and brought joy through worship.

She had a gift for making friends—whether on a shopping trip with her daughter Vicki or chatting with a stranger at a restaurant. She was always quick to compliment others and had a special place in her heart for the team at Chapala’s Mexican Restaurant.

Marilyn had a signature sense of humor, and her family fondly remembers her favorite joke: “...then the phone went green-green, green-green. So, she pinked it up and said—yellow!” It still brings a smile to their faces.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire staff at St. Luke’s Meridian Hospital—from the ER to every floor she stayed on—and to the caregivers at Timber Springs Care Center. Special appreciation also goes to Dr. Merrill Velez and Dr. Gretchen Kohler for their exceptional care and compassion over the years.

A viewing for Marilyn Wisely will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Bowman Funeral Directors, with services to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place afterward at Kohlerlawn Cemetery in Nampa.

Marilyn Rae Wisely will be remembered for her boundless love, creativity, warmth, and the unwavering joy she brought into the lives of everyone she met.