Bill Russell, a name synonymous with basketball greatness, left an indelible mark on the world of sports. His achievements on the court are legendary, and his influence extends far beyond basketball. As the first African-American athlete to reach the status of a superstar, Bill Russell’s life was filled with remarkable accomplishments, both on and off the court. After his passing in 2022, fans around the world became increasingly curious about his personal life, especially his marriages. Marilyn Nault, who was Russell’s third wife, became a subject of much interest. In this article, we explore Marilyn Nault’s life, her marriage to Bill Russell, her career, and her untimely passing, shedding light on the woman behind the name.
Marilyn Nault: Identity and Biography
Marilyn Nault, a woman whose life was intertwined with one of the most iconic athletes in history, preferred to live away from the spotlight. Despite her connection to Bill Russell, Marilyn was not a public figure and kept much of her personal life private. However, some details about her background provide insight into who she was before becoming Russell’s wife.
Born on January 15, 1950, in Kansas, United States, Marilyn Nault was raised in a family with strong ties to hard work and resilience. She was the only daughter of Helen and Quentin Nault and had four brothers: Kyle, James, Phil, and Eric. Marilyn’s childhood and upbringing in Kansas laid the foundation for her future career and life choices. After completing high school, Marilyn moved to Seattle, where she sought new opportunities and began working as a jewelry salesperson.
It was in Seattle that Marilyn’s path crossed with that of Bill Russell. At the time, Russell was already a renowned figure in the basketball world, having retired from the sport in the 1980s. The two met through Marilyn’s job in the jewelry business, and their connection grew quickly. They began dating shortly after meeting, and their relationship blossomed into marriage. Marilyn, being a private person, kept much of her life with Bill away from the media’s gaze.
In the year 2000, after a few years of dating, Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault tied the knot. Marilyn was 16 years younger than Russell, yet their age difference did not seem to affect the strong bond they shared. Their marriage was a peaceful and loving one, lasting for nine years, during which the couple enjoyed a quiet and happy life together. Sadly, Marilyn Nault passed away in 2009, just days before their anniversary and Bill Russell’s birthday.
Marilyn Nault’s Marriage with Bill Russell
Marilyn Nault’s name is most commonly associated with her marriage to Bill Russell. However, it is important to note that she was not Russell’s first wife. Before Marilyn, Bill Russell had been married twice. His first marriage was to Rose Swisher in 1956, and together they had three children: William, Jacob, and Karen. Their marriage lasted for 17 years before they divorced in 1973. Russell’s second marriage was to Dorothy Anstett, a former Miss USA. This marriage, like the first, ended in separation in 1980.
After two failed marriages, Bill Russell found love again when he met Marilyn Nault in 1996. At the time, Russell was 62 years old, and Marilyn was working as a jewelry salesperson in Seattle. Their romance developed quickly, and by the year 2000, they were married. Marilyn Nault’s marriage to Russell was kept relatively private, with very little information available about their life together. The couple enjoyed a peaceful and content marriage, far from the public eye, which was a sharp contrast to the high-profile nature of Russell’s previous relationships.
Marilyn was a supportive and loving wife, and while they did not have any children together, she was close to Bill’s children from his previous marriages. Marilyn played a significant role in Russell’s life, providing him with companionship and stability. The couple lived together in Seattle, where they enjoyed their time in the quiet corners of life away from the basketball spotlight.
Sadly, Marilyn’s life was cut short in 2009 when she passed away at the age of 59. The loss of Marilyn was a devastating blow to Bill Russell, who had spent nine years of his life with her. Her death left a lasting impact on him, and he would carry her memory with him throughout the remainder of his life.
Career and Net Worth of Marilyn Nault
Before becoming Bill Russell’s wife, Marilyn Nault had a career as a jewelry salesperson. She worked in Seattle for several years, honing her skills in the jewelry business. Marilyn’s profession allowed her to be successful and independent, but she eventually left her job after marrying Russell. Her focus shifted towards her family and supporting her husband.
Although not much information is available about Marilyn’s career after her marriage, it is clear that she was content with her role as a wife. The couple’s life together was quiet and away from the public eye, so Marilyn’s personal endeavors were not widely known.
While Marilyn’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, her husband, Bill Russell, enjoyed a successful career as a professional basketball player and coach. At the time of his death in 2022, Russell’s estimated net worth was around $10 million. It is likely that Marilyn shared in this wealth during their years of marriage.
Marilyn Nault’s Cause of Death
Marilyn Nault’s death at the age of 59 remains somewhat mysterious. The official cause of her death was never publicly revealed, and her family chose to keep the details private. However, in the years following her passing, it was disclosed that Marilyn had been battling cancer. Despite her illness, there were no public indications that she was unwell prior to her death, adding to the mystery surrounding her passing.
Marilyn’s family and friends held a private funeral for her in Seattle, and she was buried at Lake View Cemetery. Her passing was a deeply personal loss for Bill Russell, who had loved her dearly.
Bill Russell’s Life After Marilyn Nault’s Death
The death of Marilyn Nault had a profound effect on Bill Russell’s life. Following her passing, Russell became an advocate for cancer awareness and research, a cause that was close to his heart after losing his beloved wife. Russell joined forces with other sports figures to support cancer research, including partnering with the Harold Pump Foundation, which focuses on fighting cancer.
Despite the deep sorrow he experienced, Bill Russell continued to live a full life after Marilyn’s death. He remained active in the public eye and was involved in various charity efforts. However, Russell did not marry again for nearly a decade after Marilyn’s passing. In 2018, at the age of 84, Bill Russell married for the fourth time to Jeanine Fiorito, a former professional golfer. Jeanine Fiorito had made a name for herself in the Canadian Women’s Tour, where she was named Player of the Year in 2010.
Russell’s marriage to Jeanine was his last, and they enjoyed several years together before his death in 2022. The couple appeared together in the media and on social media platforms, where Russell frequently shared moments from their lives.
FAQs
Who is Marilyn Nault?
Marilyn Nault was Bill Russell’s third wife. She was a jewelry salesperson and lived a private life with Russell, staying away from the public spotlight.
How long were Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault married?
Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault were married for nine years, from 2000 until her death in 2009.
What was Marilyn Nault’s profession?
Before marrying Bill Russell, Marilyn Nault worked as a jewelry salesperson. She eventually left her job after their marriage to focus on family life.
What was Marilyn Nault’s cause of death?
Marilyn Nault passed away in 2009 at the age of 59. While the official cause of death was not revealed, it was later disclosed that she had been battling cancer.
Conclusion
Marilyn Nault’s life may not have been as publicly known as Bill Russell’s, but she played a significant role in his personal life. Her marriage to the basketball legend was one of love and support, and her untimely death left a deep mark on Russell’s life. While she may not have sought the spotlight, Marilyn Nault’s life with Bill Russell was a testament to their strong bond, and her memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew her.
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