Marilyn D. Mosley

A Beautiful Life

The family of Marilyn D. Mosley, affectionately known as "Mama Mosley," announces her passing on May 4, 2026. A Brooklyn native and lifelong community leader, Mosley is remembered as an educator, mentor, activist, and public servant whose work strengthened New York City schools, civic life, and progressive political organizing across decades. She was also the mother of Walter T. Mosley III, New York Secretary of State.

Marilyn attended New York City public schools, including P.S. 129 and Girls High School, where she graduated in 1959 and was voted "most likely to succeed." She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Morgan State University, then graduated cum laude from City College, earning a master's degree in science and mathematics education and a second master's degree in educational administration and supervision. She was inducted into Phi Delta Kappa for her graduate-level work and was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Marilyn began her professional career as a teacher at P.S. 129, teaching sixth grade alongside her mentor Clara Cardwell, and served for more than 25 years as a respected New York City public school educator in teaching, supervisory, and administrative roles. In the 1980s, she served as Director of the Citywide Task Force on Pregnant and Parenting Teens. She was widely known for expanding opportunities, including helping students secure grants and scholarships for higher education and personally supporting enrichment programming in New York City public schools.

Her public service extended into city government, including work as an assistant to Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden and William "Bill" Thompson as an administrative manager for the New York City Comptroller's Office from 1992 to 2018. From 2018 to 2022, she served as a special advisor to Speaker Corey Johnson.

Marilyn was a committed civic leader, she founded and served as president of the Progressive Association for Political Action Democratic Club, supporting progressive Democrats running for office in Central Brooklyn. She served as a Delegate for the 2004 Democratic National Convention for the 10th Congressional District and was instrumental indeveloping Leader for the 57th Assembly District. She was also recognized for her critical role in her son's election, Walter T. Mosley III, to the New York State Assembly in 2012 to represent Assembly District 57.

Marilyn was the recipient of many awards, certificates, merits, and proclamations for her dutiful service to the community, which she loved so much. Of the many titles she received, the label of "Mama Mosley" from the community she love she wore with unabated pride and a smile big enough to light up City Hall.

In March 2024, Brooklyn Council Member Crystal Hudson honored Marilyn for her "significant and valuable contributions" to the City and State of New York, recognizing her generosity, dedication, leadership, and public service.

In July 2025, she received a Congressional Proclamation for Community Service from House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries. This recognition was very important to her as Jeffries was more than her political leader, but was also a son to her. They had a special professional relationship which was envied by many.

Marilyn was born on July 10, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York to Lillian Odessa Bernard and Samuel Davis Bernard, Sr. The family lived in Bedford Stuyvesant before moving to Crown Heights. She was married to Walter T. Mosley, Jr. and lived in Ryerson Towers where she lived for over 50 years.

Marilyn's childhood was one of wonderment. Her parents knew she was going to be a teacher as she was very smart and bossy - two characteristics that lead to her being a dynamic leader in civic and political arenas. She was the bomb!

Marilyn loved to dine out and shop. Some of the best restaurants and stores in Brooklyn and Manhattan can attest to that. She loved jewelry and wore only the very best names. Many storekeepers knew her and were thrilled to serve her as they received more than a sale, but important advice for them and their children. She loved giving advice to children and many of them owe their drive to graduate from her caring concern. She never stopped teaching.

Marilyn was a proud member of Saint Mary's Episcopal Church, where she served as Assistant Deacon and Treasurer. She was a familiar presence on Wednesday and Sunday services, known for her elegant style and faithful commitment. Fellow parishioners affectionately called her "The General" for her steady leadership and for making sure every service was in order.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her daughter, Allyson Mosley, her sisters, Faye Bernard Sherod, Deborah Bernard Jennings, and brother Samuel Davis Bernard, Jr. She is survived by her son, Walter T. Mosley III, her grandchildren Sebastien A. Carrero ­Mosley and Allyson E. Mosley, her sister Audrey J. Bernard, and a host of nieces and nephews.