Marilyn Nault: The Life And Legacy Of Bill Russell’s Third Wife
Marilyn Nault is a name that gained recognition as the third wife of basketball legend Bill Russell. Known for his incredible achievements on the court, Russell was celebrated as one of the greatest athletes of all time and the first African-American athlete to achieve superstar status. After passing in 2022, fans became increasingly curious about his personal life, with Marilyn Nault standing out as a figure of interest.
Born in 1950, Marilyn Nault lived a private life before marrying Russell in 1996. Their union, which lasted until Marilyn died in 2009, was marked by mutual respect and companionship. Despite the global fame surrounding Russell, Marilyn remained a steadfast presence in his life, offering support and stability during his later years. While she preferred to stay out of the spotlight, her role in Russell’s life highlights the quieter side of his journey—one built on personal relationships and love.
Following Russell’s death, Marilyn Nault’s story has drawn attention as fans explore the deeper aspects of the basketball icon’s life. Her legacy as a supportive partner during Russell’s retirement years serves as a reminder of the personal connections that shaped his legendary story.
Marilyn Nault: Identity And Life Story
Marilyn Nault was known for her private nature, preferring to stay out of the limelight despite her marriage to basketball icon Bill Russell. Born on January 15, 1950, in Kansas, United States, Marilyn pursued a modest life and worked as a jewelry salesperson. She was the only daughter of Helen and Quentin Nault and had four brothers: Kyle, James, Phil, and Eric. After completing her high school education, Marilyn relocated to Seattle, where she aimed to build her career. It was during this time that she met Bill Russell, and their relationship eventually blossomed into marriage.
Marilyn Nault and Bill Russell tied the knot after a period of courtship, beginning a union that lasted nine years. Despite the 16-year age difference, the couple shared a strong bond filled with love and companionship. Tragically, Marilyn passed away in 2009, just days before their wedding anniversary and Russell’s birthday. Though her life was relatively private, Marilyn Nault’s story reflects her significant role in Russell’s later years, offering support and happiness to the basketball legend during their time together.
Marilyn Nault: Profile Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Marilyn Ruth Nault Russell |
| Date of Birth | January 15, 1950 |
| Place of Birth | Cloud County, Kansas, United States |
| Age at Death | 59 years |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Profession | Jewelry Salesperson |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Spouse | Bill Russell |
| Children | None (Stepmother to 3 children) |
| Parents | Helen Nault and Quentin Nault |
| Siblings | Four (James, Phil, Eric, and Kyle) |
| Date of Death | January 21, 2009 |
| Place of Burial | Lake View Cemetery, Seattle, Washington |
Early Life Of Marilyn Nault
Marilyn Nault was born on January 15, 1950, in Concordia, Cloud County, Kansas, to Quentin and Helen Nault. She was the only daughter in a family of five children, growing up alongside her four brothers—Phil, Eric, James, and Kyle. Marilyn’s upbringing was shaped by her family’s deep Catholic faith, and she attended a Catholic high school in Kansas. Her father, Quentin, owned a jewelry store in Kansas, which greatly influenced Marilyn’s career choices. Tragically, he passed away in 1987, and years later, the family faced another loss when one of her brothers died in 2020, over a decade after Marilyn’s passing.
Marilyn’s education concluded after high school, as she chose to enter the workforce instead of pursuing college. Her early life reflected her strong values of faith, family, and hard work. These qualities would later guide her both personally and professionally, creating a foundation for her meaningful relationships and career.
Career And Meeting Bill Russell
Inspired by her father’s background, she found work as a jewelry salesperson, a role she embraced with dedication. It was in this job that she first crossed paths with NBA legend Bill Russell at a jewelry store in Seattle. Their connection deepened as Marilyn later worked as Russell’s secretary, assisting him with administrative tasks like accounting.
Once their relationship grew serious, the couple decided to marry, and Marilyn transitioned into life as a supportive housewife. Leaving her professional career behind, she dedicated herself to her new role, focusing on building a life with Russell. Her journey from a jewelry salesperson to becoming a significant part of the basketball icon’s life demonstrates her adaptability and commitment to those she loves.
Marilyn Nault’s Marriage With Bill Russell
Marilyn Nault gained recognition as the third wife of NBA legend Bill Russell. Their relationship began in 1996 when they met at a jewelry shop in Seattle where Marilyn worked. By this time, Russell had already experienced two previous marriages. His first marriage was to Rose Swisher, his college sweetheart, in 1956. The couple had three children together—William Jr., Jacob, and Karen—before divorcing in 1973 after 17 years of marriage. Russell’s second marriage was to former Miss USA Dorothy Anstett in 1977, but this union ended in divorce by 1980.
Marilyn and Bill tied the knot in 2000, shortly after Russell’s 66th birthday. Unlike his earlier relationships, this marriage remained largely out of the public eye. The couple shared nine happy years together, with Marilyn providing steadfast support to the basketball icon. Though they had no children together, Marilyn built a close bond with Russell’s three children from his first marriage, becoming a caring and significant figure in their lives. Tragically, their time together ended when Marilyn passed away in 2009, marking the conclusion of a deeply cherished chapter in Russell’s life.
Marilyn Nault And Bill Russell’s Children
Marilyn maintained a close and caring relationship with her stepchildren, playing a significant role in their lives. Her warmth and dedication made her an integral part of the family, despite not having biological children of her own.
After Marilyn’s passing, Bill Russell remarried Jeanine Russell around 2018. Jeanine was his fourth wife, and their marriage lasted until Russell’s death in 2022. Marilyn’s place in Russell’s life stands out for the love and companionship they shared during their nine years of marriage, which contrasted with the challenges he faced in his previous relationships.
Marilyn Nault’s Passing And Legacy
Marilyn Nault passed away on January 21, 2009, at the age of 59 after a battle with cancer. Her death deeply affected Bill Russell, who referred to cancer as his “mortal enemy” and expressed profound sadness whenever the illness was mentioned. In honor of her memory, Russell supported the Harold & Carole Pump Foundation, which is dedicated to cancer research. That same year, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the organization alongside Magic Johnson.
Bill Russell’s 2001 biography, Russell Rules, was dedicated to Marilyn, whom he described as his “best friend.” The book offered readers insights into his life, including cherished memories of his time with Marilyn. In 2013, Russell continued to honor her legacy by establishing a scholarship program with the Red Sox baseball team, naming it after Marilyn to support children in Boston. Her memory endures through these meaningful tributes and the impact she had on those closest to her.
Marilyn Nault And The Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP Award
In the weeks leading up to her death, Marilyn Nault was informed by then-NBA commissioner David Stern that a special honor would be bestowed upon her husband, Bill Russell. The award, which had previously been known as the “Final MVP,” was to be renamed the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award in his honor. Marilyn and Stern decided to keep the news a secret until the official announcement at the event. This recognition of Bill Russell’s extraordinary career in the NBA was particularly emotional for him, as it came shortly after the loss of his beloved wife. Although the moment was bittersweet for Russell, it was one of the most significant gestures of appreciation for his contributions to the sport, marking a pivotal moment in his life and career.
Marilyn Nault’s Legacy And Bill Russell’s Net Worth
While there is limited information available about Marilyn Nault’s net worth, given her private nature and decision to leave her career after marrying Bill Russell, it is known that her husband had a significant fortune. At the time of his death in 2022, Bill Russell’s estimated net worth was around $10 million, a reflection of his long and successful career as an NBA player, coach, and activist. Russell’s wealth also stemmed from his work beyond basketball, including his involvement in civil rights causes. Throughout their marriage, Marilyn played a supportive role in Bill’s life, and although she didn’t seek the spotlight, she left a lasting impact on him and his legacy.
Fun Facts About Marilyn Nault And Bill Russell
- Jewelry Connection: Marilyn’s career as a jewelry salesperson brought her together with Bill Russell. They met at a jewelry store in Seattle, where she worked, marking the beginning of their relationship.
- Age Gap: Despite their 16-year age difference, Marilyn and Bill shared a deep bond filled with love and respect, proving that age is just a number when it comes to true companionship.
- No Biological Children: Marilyn and Bill Russell didn’t have children together, but she embraced the role of a stepmother to Bill’s three children from his first marriage, becoming a cherished figure in their lives.
- Secret MVP Award News: Marilyn was informed about the renaming of the NBA Finals MVP Award in Bill Russell’s honor before her passing. She and NBA Commissioner David Stern kept the news a secret until the official announcement.
- Legacy Through Scholarships: After her passing, Bill Russell honored Marilyn by establishing a scholarship in her name with the Boston Red Sox, supporting children in Boston.
- Private Life: Marilyn preferred a quiet life and stayed out of the public eye, even after marrying one of the most famous athletes in history. Her privacy only added to the intrigue surrounding her life and legacy.
- Cancer Support: In honor of Marilyn’s battle with cancer, Bill Russell became actively involved in supporting cancer research, including working with the Harold & Carole Pump Foundation.
FAQs About Marilyn Nault And Bill Russell
1. Who was Marilyn Nault?
Marilyn Nault was Bill Russell’s third wife, married in 2000. She was a jewelry salesperson and lived a private life.
2. Did Marilyn and Bill Russell have children?
No, they did not have children together, but Marilyn was a stepmother to Bill’s three children from his first marriage.
3. How did Marilyn Nault pass away?
Marilyn Nault passed away from cancer on January 21, 2009, at the age of 59.
4. What is the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP Award?
The award, renamed in Bill Russell’s honor before his wife’s death, is now called the “Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award.”
5. What is Marilyn Nault’s legacy?
Marilyn’s legacy is marked by her support for Bill Russell and the tributes made in her honor, including a scholarship named after her.
Conclusion
Marilyn Nault’s life, though largely private, played an integral role in the later years of Bill Russell’s life. Her unwavering support and love were vital during his retirement, and her legacy continues through the many tributes Russell made in her honor. From the renaming of the NBA Finals MVP Award to the scholarships supporting children in Boston, Marilyn’s impact on Russell’s life and legacy is profound. Despite not seeking the spotlight, her role as a wife, stepmother, and companion to one of basketball’s greatest legends remains an important part of his personal story.
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