Marilyn (Moreau) Duval died at home, at the age of 73 on March 8, 2021, while her husband, Roger, held her hand. She battled cancer for a year but shied away from pity and lived her last year as she did the rest - doling out sage advice (she was often frustratingly right,) helping family and friends, making meals for so many - until she couldn't stand at the stove to stir. Then she instructed Roger on how to do it for her; he patiently and lovingly complied. Marilyn had the very best caretaker in Roger. With his help she was able to be at home - with dignity, companionship and her favorite person to debate with.  Marilyn was the "toughest broad we know." In the end, her body defied her stubborn streak but her mind stayed razor sharp. She continued to dot each i, cross every t, and double checked the grammar. She saw the world through a wonderful combo of strict logic and a loving heart. She vowed years ago that Multiple Sclerosis would not knock her down, and continued to travel - relaxing on a beach, wandering museums and parks, shopping for real bargains and eating local cuisine. She read and shared countless books, enjoyed playing cards, and games with her grandkids. She insisted crosswords were the antidote to an aging brain, and never peeked for answers. She took pride in teaching Mahjong to anyone with an interest, but never let them win without a fight. Her pals in South Hadley and Bradenton, FL will surely miss her cunning hand and home baked treats. And the next time her "Red Hat" friends can actually get together they will celebrate her. She was the most caring big sister to Joanne Fortin and Michael Moreau. Her friends call her sister, and strangers were quickly friends. Her spot-on advice was always given without judgement; she was faithfully honest and supportive in the kindest way. Visitors to her home were like family. She loved to relax together with her feet up by the pool, a glass of wine in hand, good conversation and laughter. A terrific and loving Mom, she raised her four children, Cheryl Silvernail, Stephen Duval, Pamela Haskins, and Neal Duval - all while working, keeping a super tidy but cozy home, and made sure they all sat down together for animated discussions over a balanced, sometimes "creative" meal each night. She impressed upon her family that they could find their happiness, persevere in life and be true to themselves. She was also a second Mom to her children-in-law, Kim Duval, Areej Duval and Scott Haskins. She loved and adored her gaggle of grandkids, the sources of smiles and laughter: Connor, Jade, Peter & James Silvernail; Ryan & Tyler Duval; Kayla & Ehnai Haskins; and Layth & Taven Duval. Marilyn worked many years as an office manager for dental practices in Chicopee and South Hadley. She greatly enjoyed her time with the American Red Cross. After working ten years with her son at Ameriprise Financial, she retired in 2010. Whether it was a patient, client, or family in need, she always offered a listening ear. In the end, Marilyn wasn't afraid to die, she just wanted to live each day to its fullest. She will remain forever in the hearts and memories of so many people who loved her. Marilyn wished to be cremated and memorials will be held privately with her family. She will be celebrated for her generosity, kindness, encouragement, love and companionship. Donations can be made in Marilyn's memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society  nationalmssociety.org  or the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance  ocrahope.org  . Curran-O'Brien Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information or to make online condolences please go to curranobrien.com.