Marilyn Mondy Yike, aged 90, wife, mother, teacher, and lifelong equestrian, passed away on June 8, 2026. 

Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, she was the daughter of Clint and Nell Mondy. Marilyn was married to her beloved husband, Roger Yike — a partnership of nearly 67 years marked by devotion and shared adventure with two daughters, Brenda and Stacy.

Marilyn graduated from UNC–Greensboro with a degree in education and went on to teach mathematics in three states. Determined that no child should ever fear math, she guided students from grammar school through high school with patience, clarity, and a genuine love of learning.

When the family moved to Bath, Ohio, Marilyn set the course for their future by finding the horse farm that became home. That decision launched a family legacy in the United States Pony Clubs. Over four decades, she served at the local, regional, and national levels — as a coach, national examiner, and member of the Board of Governors. Her contributions were recognized with multiple honors, including both the Founders Award and the Legends Award. She was also an accomplished rider in her own right, competing successfully in both eventing and dressage.

Marilyn was never one to sit idle, and she filled her life with the things she loved — horses, Pawleys Island, and a reverence for the natural world. Music stayed with Marilyn throughout her life, and singing brought her great joy in her later years.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026 in the Chapel at Tryon Estates. All are welcome to join in celebrating her life.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Marilyn may consider a gift to the organizations closest to Marilyn’s heart — the United States Pony Clubs (ponyclub.org) and FENCE (fence.org).

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Tryon, North Carolina