Marilyn Laura Bardell, 79, of Smithfield, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was a beloved sister, godmother, aunt, and friend, and was predeceased by her husband, Frederick K. Bardell, to whom she was married for 33 years. Born in the Mount Pleasant section of Providence, RI, she was the eldest child of the late Frank and Laura (Bilotta) Morelli, who imparted Catholic faith as the keystone of her life.
Marilyn was a charismatic, intelligent woman, who strove for excellence and authentic connection with others throughout all of her endeavors. During high school she forged life-long friendships that have endured for over sixty-four years. Marilyn pursued higher education at Johnson & Wales University from which she earned her Associate Degree before entering the workforce. She enjoyed longevity and success at Gilbane Building Co. in their global headquarters in Providence, RI, progressing from an entry-level position, to Associate Purchasing Agent for the Northeast Regional Office. Her career culminated with a promotion to executive secretary, and trusted right-hand to the president of Gilbane in their executive office suite, until she retired after 30+ years of service.
When Marilyn was not working, she could be found enjoying sunny days at Scarborough Beach in Narragansett. She loved entertaining at her beach house at Knowles Camp and hosted delicious clambakes with fresh seafood that her husband harvested. In 2004, she and Fred purchased a home in Naples, Florida, intending to spend their winters together there as snowbirds. Sadly, that same year Marilyn endured the devastating loss of both of her parents and her husband within an eight-month span, but persisted with grace and resiliency, solely managing two households for over twenty years. Splitting her time between Rhode Island and Florida, she enjoyed playing cards with friends and leading social committees both in the Blue Heron community of Naples, and at the Senior Center of Smithfield. In 2018, she sold the home she had shared with her husband and moved to The Oaks condominium community, making new friends and facilitating monthly ladies’ luncheons. Marilyn will be remembered for her love for her family and friends, her loyal and independent spirit, and her delicious, made-from-scratch Italian home cooking.
She is survived by her devoted brother, Frank Morelli and his wife, Cheri, of Bonita Springs, Florida; a niece, Vanessa Williams and her husband, Steven, and their children, Emma and Luke; her goddaughter, Marissa Taibi and her husband, Matthew, and grand-niece, Lila; her brother-in-law, Frederick Stowik, Jr.; and her companion, Edward Alker. She was predeceased by her sister, Dolores, who welcomed her home. She leaves other cherished relatives and many dear friends.
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