Marie Stokes Hill

Marie Stokes Hill, loved by all that knew her, passed away on May 24, 2024, in Valdosta, Georgia. Born on July 19, 1940, in Jacksonville, Florida, Marie was the daughter of Eustace Frazier Stokes and Janette Suggs Stokes. She is survived by her husband, James (Jim) Franklin Hill, and her sister, Laura Christina Stokes.

In addition to Jim and Laura, Marie leaves behind a legacy that lives on in her children, Patricia (Patti) Harrison Carr (Dan Carr), Laura Michelle Harrison, Rachel Hill Freytag (Richard Freytag), and William Brady Harrison (Heather Verbeck Harrison). Her loving spirit and wisdom continue to shine through her eight grandchildren: Colleen Marie Carr (Liz Kearney), Kyle Brady Carr (Jessica Louise Carr), Dylan Eustace Yells, Hannah Corinna Yells (Eric Ronald Fox), Henry Christopher James Freytag, Catherine Elise Hughes Freytag, Victor James Harrison, and Cecelia Brady Harrison. Additionally, she is survived by her niece, Erica Marie Stokes, and great-nephew, Finn Stokes.

Marie’s formative years were spent in Jacksonville, FL. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Stetson University in Deland, FL, and went on to earn a Master's Degree in medieval English literature from the University of Georgia. Her academic journey was complemented by her active participation in music and theater. She was a talented majorette, took the lead role in The Importance of Being Earnest, and was an accomplished clarinetist, violinist and pianist.

Marie’s professional life was as rich as her personal one. She taught English literature and writing in Atlanta and Valdosta State University, where she inspired countless students with her passion and knowledge. She also taught and consulted for short periods in Russia and China. Demonstrating her dedication to community service, Marie worked for the South Georgia Planning and Development Commission and established the South Georgia Council on Aging, serving as its Executive Director for several years. Her efforts touched the lives of many seniors and their families in the region. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she served as a lay minister at Presbyterian churches throughout South Georgia, including Quitman Presbyterian and Adel Presbyterian Churches.

A woman of varied interests, Marie was an avid reader and found joy in solving puzzles, particularly crosswords. She had a talent for cross-stitch and sewing, creating beautiful pieces that will be cherished by her family. She also had a rich spiritual life with strong ties to the Presbyterian and Episcopal churches; previously a member of First Presbyterian Church and more recently a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church.

Marie will be remembered for her beautiful smile, quick wit, warm and gentle spirit, and incredible intelligence. Her legacy of love, care, and dedication to others will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a family and community that are immensely grateful for the time they shared with her and the love she so generously gave.

Marie’s Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00pm, on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Carson McLane Funeral Home; 2215 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31602. The family will receive visitors before the service from 2:00-3:00pm.

Marie donated to numerous charitable organizations. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice in her memory.

Marie Stokes Hill's life was a testament to the power of love and the impact of a caring heart. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanefuneralservices.com

Carson McLane Funeral Home