Remembering A Friend and a Fellow Educator: Marilyn Ann Foote-Kragbe’
By Eva M. Doyle
This Columnist was saddened to learn of the passing of Marilyn Ann Foote – Kragbe’. A Celebration of Life was held for her on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the North Gate Community Church at Hertel, 60 Hertel Avenue at 11:30 am. Marilyn Ann Foote- Kragbe’ was a dedicated educator, a talented author, poet, and a community worker who gave so much to many people. This Columnist knew Marilyn in all of these areas. She was a positive influence and inspiration in our community
When Marilyn retired from teaching, she called me and told me that she had some Black history information that she wanted to share with me. She was passionate about African American History. She was an excellent teacher who had a lot of classroom experience. She would often call into the Saturday Talk Shows that aired on WUFO 96.5 FM and share her experiences as a teacher with the listening audience. She was an educator who wanted people to know the best ways to teach children, especially at the early ages of their development. Her voice will truly be missed on the air waves. She often called the “We the Parents” radio show and responded when the subject of teaching was addressed.
I knew Marilyn as a poet and storyteller. She often told stories in the community in a variety of venues. Her stories had a special message for the audience. Her series of the “Puddinhead” books were creative and colorful. Marilyn has left quite a legacy of writing books for children. She was outstanding as an author, a teacher, and a role model for educators. It was an honor for me to award Marilyn the Roses for Outstanding Women Award in 2013. This award was given to the individuals who made a positive difference in our community consistently and who shared their work with others.
The following is an excerpt from Marilyn’s Obituary. Marilyn Foote ‘ Kragbe’ was a dedicated educator and a beacon of inspiration. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Rosary Hill College, now Daemen University where she was recognized in “Who’s Who in All Colleges and Universities. Her remarkable distinction in this honor stemmed from her unique achievement working as a PreK teacher throughout her 4 years of college, displaying her unwavering commitment to teaching. Following graduation, Marilyn embarked on a life changing journey when she married Gadou Vincent Kragbe’ and moved to the Cote d’Ivoire Coast in West Africa. She was not only an exceptional educator, but also was dedicated to her family and community. There she taught Kindergarten through the 3rd grade at the International Community School of Abidjan (ICSA).
Marlyn received many awards for her achievement working as a PreK teacher including the Buffalo Board of Education Teaching in Excellence Award, the Shero Award from the Empire State Federation of Women’s Clubs, the Apply for the Teacher Award from IOTA PHI Lamba Sorority. Marilyn loved the word of God. She was active in her church. She left a lasting impact on Education, Literature, and the lives of countless individuals. She published seven faithbased children’s novelettes titled “Puddinhead, her personal memoirs, and co-authored a devotional for grieving parents called, “Tributes to Our Angels”. Marilyn was preceded in death by her sister Norma and extended family member, Isabelle. She leaves to cherish her memories, her devoted children – Lisa Kragbe’, Tatchy Kragbe’ (Jennifer), her siblings and a host of other family members. Marilyn will be remembered for her unwavering dedication and boundless love for others.
This Columnist would like to express my condolences to the family of Marilyn Kragbe’ She was a light in the world of education. She was a friend and a role model for so many future educators. May She Rest in Peace among the Angels of Heaven!