Marilyn Marie Henninger

Marilyn Marie Henninger – June 14, 1939 – July 25, 2026

Marilyn Marie Henninger, known lovingly to many as "Peanuts," passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 25, 2026, at her home in Eagle River, Alaska. She was 87 years old. Marilyn was born on June 14, 1939, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to Clarence “Wayne” and Naida Bottorff. In 1952, she and her family made the big move from San Diego to Alaska, a place she would call home for the rest of her life. She attended West High School in Anchorage and grew deep roots in the community she loved. Marilyn was a devoted mother first and foremost. She had her daughter Debbie and son Allen before meeting and marrying the love of her life, Scott Henninger. Together for 53 wonderful years, they welcomed another daughter, Brandi. Family was everything to Marilyn, and she made sure everyone around her knew it. She opened her home to anyone who needed a place to stay, and if you were lucky enough to be her friend, she considered you family. She was the sweetest and kindest soul, and a firecracker until the very end. Marilyn dedicated 26 years of service to the Anchorage School District, a career she took great pride in. Outside of work, she was a woman of many talents. She crocheted blankets for family members, tried her hand at knitting, embroidery, and tri chem painting, and was an amazing cook who loved baking for the holidays. She never turned down good Mexican food, a good margarita, or a round of bingo. One of her favorite traditions was her yearly Las Vegas trip with her sister Maureen and other family members. Marilyn is survived by her husband, Scott Henninger; her daughter, Brandi Houser; her sister, Maureen Harris; and her brother, Dennis Bottorff, along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great, great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who adored her. She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Debbie Pendleton; her son, Allen Whorley; granddaughter Rebecca Pendleton; great grandson Jayce Henninger; and her sisters, Mavis Byrd and Marya Croskrey. Marilyn was a faithful member of Maranatha Full Gospel Fellowship, and her faith carried her through every season of life. She now rests in the arms of her Lord. A celebration of life will be held in Anchorage on August 15, 2026, at Maranatha Full Gospel Fellowship, 2pm with a reception to follow after at 1301 Farrow Circle. Feel free to bring a side dish or a dessert, just the way Peanuts would have wanted it.