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" Marion Louise Ardell, age 99, passed away on February 19, 2025, at Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg in Virginia.

Born to Ralph and Mildred Allen (Phillips) in Newark Valley, NY, Marion graduated from Newark Valley High School in 1942. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music in 1946, followed by a Master’s degree in Education and a certificate in Guidance Counseling from Cortland College.

Marion began her career teaching in Owego, NY, before spending many years as a beloved music teacher at Clayton Avenue Elementary in Vestal, NY. After earning her guidance certificate, she transitioned to a role as guidance counselor at Vestal Junior High. Over the course of 31 years, she dedicated herself to teaching, counseling, and supporting students in her community. She truly loved being in the classroom and making a difference in the lives of her students. She also served on the Vestal Parks Commission for several years to help maintain parks in the community.

Beyond her career, Marion loved playing golf, traveling, and going to the horse races especially with friends and family. She was an avid card player, enjoying bridge, pinochle, and Hand and Foot – especially when playing with her daughters. She competed in bridge tournaments and took great pride in sharpening her skills at the game. She cherished time spent with her family, whether gathered around the card table, sharing stories, or creating lasting memories together. A passionate reader, she devoured multiple books each week and found joy in lifelong learning.

In addition to her parents, Marion was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Maurice Ardell; her sister, Genevieve; her brother, Norman; sister-in-law, Voula Ardell; sister-in-law, France Kettler; and son-in-law, Wesley Markowsky.

She is survived by her daughters: Linda Mosher (Bob), Sharon Bielicki (Jack), and Carol Markowsky (Wes); her seven grandchildren: Laurel, Celeste, Megan, Julie, Aaron, Allison, and John; and twelve great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her brother-in-law, Alan Ardell; sister-in-law, Pauline Allen; dear cousin, Gertrude Mead; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Marion’s kindness, dedication, and love of learning will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones to celebrate Marion’s life at MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, NY on Saturday June 7, 2025 at 10am followed by a service of remembrance at 12pm.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Marion’s memory may consider a contribution to:
• United Methodist Homes Hilltop Campus, 286 Deyo Hill Road, Johnson City, NY 13790-5110, c/o Reverend Lea
• Mary Washington Hospice, 2300 Fall Hill Avenue, Suite 401, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 "