Marie Jane Stonage

Marie Jane Stonage, a cherished member of her family and community, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025, in Franklin, Tennessee. She was born on July 27, 1926, in Galloway, West Virginia, and was a college graduate of West Virgina University.

Marie had a passion for various activities that brought her joy and allowed her to connect with others. She enjoyed golfing, tennis, gardening, and was an extremely good bridge player. She was a proud West Virginian Mountaineer and a member of Cypress Lake United Methodist Church in Ft. Myers, Florida, where she lived for over 20 years, enjoying lots of golf, tennis, bridge, and time on the beach.

Marie is survived by her son, Richard S. Stonage Jr. (Pamela), and her daughter, Sally Ann Stonage and grandson Stephen Stonage. Her legacy is one of love and warmth, instilled in her children and those who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Richard "Duck" Stonage, as well as her parents, Raymond and Opal Bell Buzzard. Marie was also preceded in death by her siblings, Raymond Casper Buzzard, Charles Buzzard, and Elizabeth Ann Colombo, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Marie Jane Stonage will be remembered not only for her spirit and love of life but also for the indelible mark she left on the hearts of those around her. Marie was a compassionate and caring person who always put others first. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of family, friendship, and shared experiences, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

 A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband.

 To honor Marie’s passion for children with autism, the family requests tribute donations to autism research at Marcus Autism Center. Gifts can be made online at give.choa.org/MarieStonage or mailed to: Attn: Tributes, 1575 Northeast Expressway, Atlanta, GA 30329.