Marilyn “Merl” Craft Obituary: Former Pittsburg Mayor Remembered for Nearly 50 Years of Public Service

Pittsburg, California, mourns former mayor Marilyn “Merl” Craft, who died on October 26, 2026. Remember her decades of civic service, family and community legacy.

Marilyn “Merl” Craft’s Life and Career in Pittsburg

The City of Pittsburg announced on October 28 that former mayor, councilmember and City Recreation Supervisor Marilyn “Merl” Craft had died on October 26, 2026. A lifelong Pittsburg resident, Craft dedicated nearly five decades to municipal service, volunteering and community advocacy.

Her career reflected a sustained commitment to helping residents access opportunities and support. Through her work in recreation and local government, she helped build partnerships among public agencies, community groups and faith-based organizations, with particular attention to young people and families.

Craft also founded Open Opportunities, a nonprofit that supported mentoring and career training for young adults through its Future Build Pre-Apprentice Training Program. According to the city’s announcement as reproduced by Contra Costa News, more than 90 percent of the program’s graduates obtained jobs.

Family and Community Tributes

According to the supplied account, Craft was surrounded by her husband, Jim, and their children when she died. The city’s public statement extended condolences to her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family and everyone whose life she touched.

Marilyn “Merl” Craft’s Cause of Death

The supplied article identifies leukemia as the illness preceding Craft’s death. However, the city announcement reviewed does not specify a cause of death, and further medical details have not been independently confirmed. The cause should therefore be attributed to the supplied report rather than presented as an official city-confirmed detail.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

At the time of the city’s announcement, memorial service details had not yet been released. Updates were expected from the City of Pittsburg or the family.

Key Information

• Name: Marilyn “Merl” Craft

• Community: Pittsburg, California

• Date of death: October 26, 2026

• Public service: Nearly five decades

• Reported illness: Leukemia, according to the supplied account; not specified in the city announcement

• Memorial plans: Flags lowered to half-staff; council meeting adjournment planned

Disclaimer: This article draws on the City of Pittsburg’s public announcement and the information supplied. The reported cause of death and family details should be confirmed through an authorised statement before being treated as officially verified.