First off I would like to say my condolences to Mrs. Contreras family. I know it has been a few years since Mrs. Contreras has passed and she has been on my mind. She was always a big inspiration in my life from when she taught me at Nimitz HS to even years after. I will never forget the smile on her face when she came to my house to take the puppy I was not able to keep, when she laid eyes on her she just said, “ Oh she is Precious!” The next day at school she told me she decided to name her Precious because that was her first thought of her. She sure loved that dog and Precious loved her dearly too! I could go on with so many great memories with her. She touched so many peoples hearts and I am Thankful to be one of them! Miss you dearly Mrs. C!! 

My sincere & heartfelt condolences to her family. Mrs. Contreras truly changed my life. I met her by happenstance. She was working overnight at a nursing home that I volunteered to cover. Someone else was supposed to go and collect patient samples for the lab. Since it was unscheduled, I was in my street clothes. I had a University of Phoenix T-Shirt on. As I was filling out paperwork and about to leave, she came out of nowhere asking me 21 questions🙂. I almost got offended because this strange woman is very comfortable asking me personal questions about myself (I was thinking).

 Not knowing my name, She wanted to know if I had my degree, what was it in, etc. Something told me to politely answer her questions, so I did. Next thing I know, I’m a Health Science & Pharmacy Tech teacher at Nimitz High School….. all because of her. 

Mrs. Contreras saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. She had such a huge heart and trusting soul. Because of her, I gained the experience and knowledge that helped me become a very impactful leader at one of the largest healthcare systems in the state of Arizona. 

I’m sure I’m not the only one that this amazing woman has unknowingly helped in more ways than 50.  She is truly missed. 

I was one of Mrs. Contreras CNA students at Nimitz High school. She was one of my favorite teachers and made a huge difference in my life when I was going through many difficult obstacles. Mrs. C you will be truly missed! Condolences to her family; she was an amazing woman!

I was a friend of Marilyn's brother and had several opportunities to spend time with Marilyn. Whether it was a trip to Stratford to see her favorite Stratford actor, Jonathan Goad, or during one of her visits to Muncie, I always looked forward to and enjoyed spending time with her. I'll always remember a story Dick shared with me. When they were young, Marilyn was reading Little Women. When she got to the part where Amy married Laurie, she threw the book at the wall. I can relate. My condolences to all of Marilyn's family and friends.

• What a wonderful woman and teacher. Marilyn travelled with Canutillo HS Stage Players for many years while she was at Canutillo HS.  Seven years in row to Angelo State University in San Angelo for the one act play competition . The kids loved and respected her so much.  On the  trips she would always say, "You can have fund  until 11PM, after that time,  lights out. Tomorrow we are here to compete , learn and win".   Marilyn will truly be missed by all of us and specially me. Rest in peace. Richard J.     Let the church say Amen.