Date of Service:
January 03, 2026
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Marilyn Kates Sotter, 84, passed away on November 22, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida. A vibrant and adventurous spirit, Marilyn lived a life marked by creativity, determination, and a deep appreciation for family, friends, and the world around her.
Born on December 10, 1940, in Cape May Court House, New Jersey, Marilyn was the daughter of Florida and Charles Kates. She pursued her education with passion and purpose, attending Sullins College in Bristol, Virginia, followed by the Traphagen School of Design in New York City. These formative years laid the foundation for a lifelong career in interior design, a field where she would leave an indelible mark.
Marilyn began her professional journey in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where she established herself as a talented and driven interior designer. In 1982, she relocated to Vero Beach, Florida, bringing her business with her and continuing to grow it with the same fierce dedication that defined her work ethic. Remarkably, she remained actively involved in her business until her passing, a testament to her unwavering commitment and entrepreneurial spirit.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marilyn embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. She was an avid traveler who explored over 40 countries across all seven continents, checking each destination off her list with pride. Her travels were not just about seeing new places but about experiencing life fully and connecting with people across the globe.
Marilyn also found great joy in visiting family scattered across the world from Christchurch, New Zealand to Oakland, California; Nashville, Tennessee; Cape May Court House, New Jersey; and Peoria, Illinois. Her love for travel was matched only by her love for those closest to her.
She had a zest for fitness and food and was known for staying active throughout her life. Whether on the golf course or enjoying dinner out with friends, Marilyn cherished good company and lively conversation. Her passion for golf made it more than just a pastime, volunteering for junior golf at Sandridge Golf Club or playing with friends, it was one of the many ways she connected with others while doing something she loved.
Marilyn is lovingly remembered by her brother Charles Kates; sister Arlene Brosnan; sons Jeff Sotter (Thalia) and Tim Sotter (Christy), grandchildren Samantha (Derek Abis), Victoria, Christina, Ruby, Cassidy and great grandson Austin Abis. She was preceded in death by her husband, John (Jack) Sotter as well as her parents.
A woman of strength and style who lived life on her own terms, Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of adventure, hard work, laughter, and love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
A celebration of life will take place January 3rd, 2026. In lieu of flowers please donate to youth on course @ youthoncourse.org.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Mary Egor - frienf
November 27, 2025, 1:12 am
She will be missed, she was a good friend
Dean Daryl Baxter - 3rd cousin
November 27, 2025, 1:13 am
I am so sorry to hear about Marilyin. I will Never forget the summer I worked for her , she taught me all about swag & jabot. while assisted her installing curtains. She didn’t play around her work ethic was strong and prideful. I learned alot that summer. She will be missed..
Patty and Mark Haggen - Arlene’s stepdaughter
November 27, 2025, 2:44 am
Dear Jeff, Tim and family, What an amazing life your mom lived. Her enthusiasm for living life to its fullest is obvious in her travels over the past several years. An extremely talented interior designer, she met all of her customers needs. I know John, (my dad) appreciated her work as he made some valences etc., for her business. Arlene has lost a friend and sister. I know her loss will be felt forever. Mark and I saw Marilyn in early September and she was as spry as ever! Great memories of a wonderful soul. Wishing you comfort during this difficult time. Love, Patty and Mark Haggen
Jane Howard - Friend and colleague and fellow traveler
November 27, 2025, 3:15 am
Marilyn was a wonderful spirit and I will certainly miss her. We enjoyed many hours of fun , travel , talk and adventure.Every time I go into our living room.I look at the beautiful chairs and bench that she created for us.And I think of her. She was a tribute to professional work in the interior design field.She did so much to help the students who were learning. She will be certainly missed and never forgotten.
Nancy Walter - Friend and Neighbor
November 27, 2025, 4:21 am
To Arlene, Jeff and Tim: Words are rather inadequate at such a time, but I’m so dreadfully sorry about the loss of your mother and sister. Marilyn was always so full of life and love and such a delight to know. We enjoyed her as a neighbor and friend with her dry wit and honest commentary. She will be greatly missed. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of her family. Lovingly, Nancy Walter
Lynne Farrow Morshead - Daughter of her friend and classmate, Dana Dawson
November 27, 2025, 7:28 pm
Marilyn and her family would have gatherings with my family in Stone Harbor, Pottstown, Cape May Court House. My mom and Marilyn went to school together in Middle township . We’d have great times together skiing in Vermont and Pennsylvania. My condolences to Jeff and Tim and their families.
Gretchen Lyne - acquaintance
November 27, 2025, 7:50 pm
My condolences to all of Marilyn’s fine family. May the younger generations be inspired by her zest and fortitude for living her life fully! ❤️
Cathy Lasorsa - Client and Friend
November 29, 2025, 1:27 am
I’m saddened to hear that Marilyn is no longer with us. She was a wonderful person to know and her work made our house a home was so valuable to us. My deepest condolences to her entire family. Thalia, she will be missed.
Irv Hurd - Lifetime friend
November 29, 2025, 5:35 pm
Decades of love, friendship and good times will always be with me. Marilyn you will always have a place in my heart. May you rest in eternal life with our Lord. And to the family feel comfort knowing God is with you.❤️
Beth Weatherstone - Former client
November 30, 2025, 12:23 pm
I remember Marilyn as a talented seamstress and interior designer, who could turn fabric into something truly amazing. With every stitch, she wove not only thread but patience, artistry, and love. Her craft was more than a skill – it was a gift she shared generously with everyone fortunate enough to know her. She shared her talents with my family via restitching and recovering beloved couches more than once. I feel fortunate to have benefited from her talent as an interior designer.
JUDY STINE - FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR
November 30, 2025, 11:58 pm
So very sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing. She was a good friend to me and I very much enjoyed her visits and company as she stopped by. I will cherish my memories with her. Thoughts and prayers to all of you.