Marilyn Jean Pelkey, born on August 23, 1953, in Wheeling, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at her home on May 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 72 years old.
Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. She spent 17 years working in customer service at Riesbeck’s Food Market, where she was known for her friendly demeanor and dedication to helping others.
A lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Marilyn enjoyed cheering on her favorite team every season. Her love for Mickey Mouse brought joy and whimsy into her life, and she cherished every moment spent with her beloved family. Marilyn enjoyed spending every moment she could with her beloved husband. Much of their time was spent fishing, visiting the zoo and traveling together.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Mary (Wayble) Bragg; her brothers, James and John Bragg; and her daughter, Heather Ann Morgan. She is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph Pelkey; her son, Ronald Morgan, Jr.; her stepdaughters, Bridgette (Steven) Taylor and Gidgette (Ray) Vaughn; 15 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her brother, Raymond Bragg, and her sister, Anita Bragg Fouts.
Marilyn was a woman of faith, guided by her Methodist beliefs throughout her life. Her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family and friends.
Friends and family will gather for a memorial visitation on Saturday, May 16 from 12:00 pm until time of memorial service at 1:00 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Home-Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger Street, Wheeling, WV. Inurnment will be Monday, May 18, 2026 at 2:30 pm at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Cleveland Clinic Respiratory Institute, where Marilyn found compassion and education during her illness, by clicking HERE.
