Marilyn Bergman (Smith)
October 25, 1936 – November 22, 2025

Marilyn Bergman was born Dorothy Marilyn Smith on October 25, 1936, in Greenville, Texas, and passed peacefully on November 22, 2025, in Bakersfield, California, at the age of 89. She moved to Shafter, California, at just nine months old and made it her beloved hometown for nearly her entire life, relocating to Bakersfield only ten months ago.

In September 1954, Marilyn married the love of her life, Franklin "Frank" Bergman. Together they shared 70 years of devoted marriage before Franklin's passing in March 2025. Their life together was centered around family, faith, and the small-town community they cherished.

Franklin and Marilyn raised four children who were the joy of her life: Jerry (Beverly), Alan (Patricia), Brenda Mitchell (Dan), and Shannon Crouch (Ken). Marilyn was richly blessed with seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and her sister Nancy Wells. She was preceded in death by her parents, Malcolm and Carol Smith, and her younger brothers, Marshall and Arnold Smith.

Marilyn was a loving stay-at-home mother for many years before working at Shafter High School for 25 years. There she was warmly loved by both staff and students. She had a gift for turning ordinary moments into lasting memories—whether working at the school or chatting with new friends during shopping trips to Winco, where she seemed to know someone on every aisle. She loved to walk her neighborhood again getting to know neighbors on a deeper level.

Above all, Marilyn's greatest passion was her deep personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Her life revolved around studying the Bible, praying faithfully for her family and church community, and meeting the needs of others in practical, heartfelt ways. Serving in the church kitchen brought her joy, and as she grew older, her church family became even more precious to her. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Valley Bible Church for the many kindnesses shown. Special appreciation is given to Nancy Spiva and Terri Hamilton, who became like family to Marilyn and her children, as well as to Colleen Diltz for her cheerful visits and thoughtful gifts. You each made her life sweeter.

We grieve her passing, yet not without the joy and peace of knowing she is now with her Savior and reunited with the husband she loved so deeply. You will be profoundly missed, Mom. Your prayers, your faith, and your unwavering devotion will live on in our hearts.