Marylyn Kaye (Bragdon) Gear

Marylyn Kaye Gear passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Pompano Beach, Florida. She was born on August 13, 1933, in Ipswich, Massachusetts, to Evelyn Doyle-Bragdon and Chester Standley Bragdon.

Raised in Essex, Massachusetts, Marylyn began working at the age of fifteen at Woodman's of Essex. After graduating from Gloucester High School, she proudly served as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, stationed in Washington, D.C.

Following her military service, Marylyn settled in Melrose, Massachusetts, where she raised her family. Later in life, she moved to Pompano Beach and worked until retirement at Health Communications, the publisher of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books.

Marylyn is lovingly remembered by her four children: Thomas Gear, Edward Gear, Nancy Hewitt and her husband Jerome Hewitt, and Kenneth Gear. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Jeremy Hewitt and his wife Courtney Hewitt, Sarah Hewitt, Rebecca Gear, Edward Gear, and Emily Gear. She is fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; one special great-great-niece; and many dear friends and neighbors. Her best friend Nancy Small held a cherished place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her sister Helen Stewart.

Marylyn had a passion for dancing and was known for her storytelling. Her love of decorating brought color and creativity into every space she touched. She enjoyed traveling with her dearest friend and had a special fondness for lighthouses. Her distinctive laughter filled every room she entered. A proud patriot, her spirit of service remained strong throughout her life.

A funeral Mass will be held on May 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 52 Main Street, Essex, Massachusetts, followed by military honors at the cemetery.  Assisting Marylyn's family is the Morris Funeral Home of Ipswich.  To send a letter of condolence to her family please go to:  MorrisFH.com .

Her vibrant spirit lives on through those who loved her-may her memory continue to shine brightly.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marylyn Kaye (Bragdon) Gear, please visit our floral store.