Marilyn Nault: The Life and Legacy of Bill Russell Third Wife & More Explore

Marilyn Nault is a name that many might recognize in connection to her marriage to the legendary basketball star, Bill Russell. While much of Marilyn’s life remained private, her identity became more widely known after her passing, particularly because of her relationship with one of basketball’s most iconic figures. As Bill Russell’s third wife, Marilyn Nault lived a life that was largely in the shadows, yet her story is one of love, strength, and the quiet support behind a sports legend.

Marilyn Nault: Early Life and Background

Marilyn Ruth Nault was born on January 15, 1950, in Cloud County, Kansas, United States. She was the daughter of Helen and Quentin Nault, and grew up alongside her four brothers—Kyle, James, Phil, and Eric. Marilyn had a relatively private childhood, and little is known about her early life outside of her family.

After completing high school, Marilyn moved to Seattle, where she sought to carve out a career for herself. It was there that she began working as a jewelry salesperson, a job that would become a significant part of her life before she married Bill Russell. In her professional capacity, Marilyn worked diligently and found success, but her life would change dramatically when she met Bill Russell.

Meeting Bill Russell and Marriage

Bill Russell, who had already achieved legendary status in the NBA, met Marilyn while she was working at a jewelry shop in Seattle in 1996. Despite the age difference—Bill was 16 years older than Marilyn—the two quickly struck up a relationship. After dating for some time, they decided to marry, and in 2000, they tied the knot.

At the time of their marriage, Bill Russell was already a retired basketball legend, having led the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA championships and earned numerous accolades. Marilyn, on the other hand, was a successful jewelry salesperson who had focused much of her energy on her career. However, once married, Marilyn chose to step back from her career to focus on her family and her relationship with Russell.

While Bill Russell had two previous marriages before Marilyn, it was with her that he found a lasting partnership. Marilyn and Bill lived a relatively private life, away from the public eye that followed Bill’s basketball career. Their marriage lasted for nine years, during which they shared a strong bond built on mutual respect and love. They had no biological children together, but Marilyn was a stepmother to Bill’s three children from his previous marriages.

Marilyn Nault’s Life After Marriage

Marilyn Nault’s life, in many ways, was defined by her marriage to Bill Russell. However, as she preferred to keep her personal life away from the public eye, little information is available about her activities after their marriage. Marilyn devoted much of her time to her family and her role as a supportive partner to Bill. After getting married, she stepped away from her jewelry sales career and embraced a quieter life in the company of her husband.

Despite her largely private life, Marilyn’s influence on Bill Russell’s personal world was immense. She provided him with the stability and support that was essential in his post-basketball years. She helped him navigate the pressures of public life and played a significant role in keeping his family together.

Marilyn Nault’s Cause of Death

Marilyn Nault’s life was tragically cut short when she passed away on January 21, 2009, just days before her wedding anniversary and Bill’s birthday. She was only 59 years old at the time of her death. The cause of Marilyn’s death was not publicly disclosed by her family, leading to some mystery surrounding her passing. However, it was later revealed that Marilyn had been battling cancer for some time before her death.

Her untimely passing was a profound loss for Bill Russell, who was deeply affected by the death of his beloved wife. The couple had been together for almost a decade, and Marilyn’s absence left a void in Bill’s life that would be difficult to fill. Her funeral took place in Seattle, where she was laid to rest in Lake View Cemetery. Bill Russell, along with close family and friends, mourned her loss privately.

Bill Russell’s Life After Marilyn Nault’s Death

Marilyn’s passing had a profound impact on Bill Russell, who was devastated by the loss of his third wife. To cope with his grief, Russell became more involved in cancer awareness and fundraising efforts. He joined forces with the Harold Pump Foundation, an organization that works to raise money for cancer research. This was one of the many ways in which Bill Russell honored the memory of his late wife, as it was revealed that Marilyn had been battling cancer during her final years.

After Marilyn’s death, Bill Russell did not marry again for nearly a decade. However, in 2018, at the age of 84, he married his fourth wife, Jeanine Fiorito. Jeanine was a professional golfer who had been a part of the Canadian Women’s Tour and became a notable figure in her own right. Russell and Fiorito’s marriage was less private than his previous relationships, and the couple was seen together at various events and on social media. Jeanine Fiorito was Bill’s last wife before his death in 2022, marking the end of an era for the basketball legend.

The Legacy of Marilyn Nault

Though Marilyn Nault may not have sought fame or attention, her impact on Bill Russell’s life was immeasurable. She was a source of unwavering support for him during their time together, and her passing marked a turning point in Russell’s life. Her death inspired Bill to get more involved in causes that were important to her, such as cancer research, and to continue the fight against the disease that ultimately took her life.

Marilyn’s quiet strength, dedication to her family, and love for Bill Russell leave behind a lasting legacy. While she may have chosen to remain largely out of the public eye, she is remembered by those who knew her as a loving and devoted partner. Bill Russell’s life after her death reflects how significant her presence was in his life. Her legacy is one of compassion, family, and the deep connection between two people who found love later in life.

Conclusion

Marilyn Nault was not just the wife of Bill Russell, but a woman who left a mark on his life and legacy. Their nine years of marriage were filled with love, mutual respect, and support. While Marilyn may not have sought the spotlight, her role in Bill’s life was vital. She gave him the peace and companionship he needed after his illustrious basketball career. Though Marilyn Nault’s life was tragically cut short, her influence on Bill Russell’s life is undeniable, and her memory continues to live on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who was Marilyn Nault? 

Marilyn Nault was the third wife of NBA legend Bill Russell. She was a jewelry salesperson and led a relatively private life, primarily known for her marriage to the iconic basketball player.

2. How long were Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault married? 

Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault were married for nine years, from 2000 until her passing in 2009.

3. What was Marilyn Nault’s profession? 

Marilyn Nault worked as a jewelry salesperson before she married Bill Russell and chose to focus on her family after their marriage.

4. What was the cause of Marilyn Nault’s death? 

Marilyn Nault passed away from cancer on January 21, 2009, just days before her wedding anniversary and Bill Russell’s birthday. The cause of death was kept private until it was revealed that she had been battling cancer.

5. How did Bill Russell cope with Marilyn Nault’s death? 

After Marilyn’s death, Bill Russell became involved in cancer awareness and fundraising, specifically with the Harold Pump Foundation, to honor her memory and fight against the disease.

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