Jim and Marilyn Day
Marilyn Day, born on July 21, 1940, and her husband Jim Day, born on September 6, 1939, are pillars of the Salem, Indiana community, leaving an indelible mark of generosity and kindness. Their journey, marked by love, dedication, and service, is a testament to the profound impact individuals can have on their community.
Both Jim and Marilyn were raised in families that instilled values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. Jim, the son of Glen and Madge Day, and Marilyn, the daughter of Floyd and Mary Bush, grew up understanding the importance of community and the significance of lending a helping hand to those in need. Jim and Marilyn worked hard on their family farm and passed on these same values to their four children-Pam, Jeff, Kim, Angela and eight grandchildren.
Throughout their lives, Jim and Marilyn were guided by influential mentors and figures who imparted invaluable lessons. Jim's passion for agriculture was nurtured by his experiences in the Washington County 4-H program and his involvement in FFA. Marilyn, a cosmetologist by profession and longtime employee of the Washington County Clerks Office, balanced her career with helping on the farm and her commitment to community service.
Jim and Marilyn's dedication to their community extended beyond their professional endeavors. They both served as Washington County 4-H Leaders for over 60 years touching the lives of hundreds of 4-H youth. They were active members of numerous organizations, including the Salem Farmers Club and the Washington County Fair Board, where Jim served as President. Jim served 28 years as a Washington County Councilman and twelve years as a director for the Indiana Beef Evaluation Program. Marilyn's longstanding involvement with the Washington County Extension Homemakers spanned over six decades, reflecting her unwavering commitment to community development and education. They are both active members of Southern Hills Church.
Their life on the farm and community service brought them joy and fulfillment. Jim's love for farming and Marilyn's passion for homemaking (cooking, sewing, gardening) complemented each other, creating a harmonious partnership dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
As proud alumni of Salem High School and avid supporters of youth development programs like 4-H, Jim and Marilyn envisioned a future where young people could thrive and contribute positively to society. Their decision to establish the Jim and Marilyn Day Touch Tomorrow Fund with the Washington County Community Foundation was driven by their desire to leave a lasting legacy of support for the community they cherished.
Jim and Marilyn's legacy is not just one of financial contribution but also of selflessness, compassion, and dedication to the betterment of others. They wanted future generations of Washington County residents to remember them as community supporters who were always willing to lend a helping hand, especially to the youth striving to become better citizens.
Through their fund, Jim and Marilyn's impact will continue to be felt for generations to come, touching the lives of countless individuals and embodying the spirit of generosity and service that defines their remarkable lives.
Jim passed away June 30, 2024.
