Alpha Carolyn Marinich, born April 25, 1936, in Combs, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2026, at Integrity Healthcare of Celina. She was 90 years old.

Alpha was the cherished daughter of Dewey Strunk and Elizabeth Maggard Strunk. As the youngest of her siblings, she shared a special bond with her brothers and sisters, especially her sisters, whose love and friendship remained an important part of her life.

Above all else, Alpha's greatest joy was her family. She found her true happiness in the love of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Her greatest title in life was simply 'Mamaw'.

Alpha appreciated life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed playing bingo, spending time with those she loved, sharing laughter and meals around the table. She never needed extravagant things to be happy; being surrounded by family was more than enough. Her kind heart, feisty spirit, and unconditional love made her the heart of her family, and her home was always a place of comfort and togetherness.

She is survived by her son, Mike (Patsy) Marinich of Celina, Tennessee; her daughter, Elizabeth Marinich of Monticello, Kentucky; her daughter-in-law, Kimberly Marinich of Hamilton, Ohio; her grandchildren, Michael Ryan (Amanda) Marinich of Oxford, Ohio; Jamie (Dodd) Scott of Monroe, Tennessee; Randy Lee (Angela) Burton of Monticello, Kentucky; Dereck (Taryn) Marinich of Jacksonville, Florida; Erika Marinich of Jacksonville, Florida; Mario (Lisa) Isgro of Hamilton, Ohio; Nicki (Jarid) Schaffeld of Liberty Twsp, Ohio; Tony (Crystal) Isgro of Oxford, Ohio; Jason Hawk of Ohio; along with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tommy Marinich; her son, Thomas Russell "Rusty" Marinich; her daughter, Vicki Lynn Marinich Keim; and her granddaughter, Angie Brown.

Alpha's greatest legacy is the love she poured into her family. She taught those around her that life's richest blessings are found in time spent together, a caring heart, and the joy of simply being present for the people you love. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

In honoring Alpha's wishes, cremation has been chosen. A memorial service celebrating her life will be announced at a later date.

Clay County Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 243-5050.