Marlene Lydia Stierwald

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Marlene "Marl" Stierwald, a beloved educator, dedicated scholar, a compassionate soul, who peacefully passed away at the age of 77. She was a lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish and will be remembered for her indelible mark on the lives of those she taught and mentored throughout her remarkable career. Marl was born in New Orleans, LA on February 12, 1948, the daughter of the late Louis Stierwald Sr. and the late Lydia Schulte Stierwald. Though she never married or had children of her own, she embraced a life dedicated to the betterment of others, particularly through her passion for education. She often said her students were her children, and she poured her heart into shaping young minds. After completing her undergraduate studies, Marl went on to earn a master’s degree in education from the University of New Orleans (UNO), a prestigious achievement that fueled her desire to provide quality education to the next generation. Her educational journey was not just about credentials, but about a deep, lifelong commitment to her craft.

Her career in education began at St. Raphael Catholic School, where she took on her first teaching role. It was there that she became known not only for her extensive knowledge but for her ability to connect with her students in ways that made them feel seen, heard, and valued. Her classroom was a safe haven for many, and she inspired countless students to reach for their highest potential. In recognition of her dedication to education and her lifelong contributions to the field, she was honored with the most prestigious educational award in New Orleans, presented to her by the Altarsey Guas La Fanta organization. This recognition celebrated her tireless work in advancing education, her commitment to fostering community, and her legacy of compassion. Though Marl led a life without a spouse or children of her own, she was a mother figure to so many, offering wisdom, guidance, and an unwavering support to her family, friends, colleagues, and students. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched—through the lessons she taught, the values she instilled, and the love she shared.

She is survived by her dear cousins, Derlin G. Clair, Rhonda C. Starling (David), Merrill Stierwald Jr. (Sandra), Gwendolyn Ourso (Richard) and other cousins. Marl is preceded in death by her parents, Louis Stierwald Sr., and Lydia Schulte Stierwald; her brother, Louis Stierwald Jr. May she rest in peace, knowing her work has forever shaped the future of many and left a lasting imprint on the heart of her community.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 5:00PM-8:00PM. On Tuesday January 13, 2026, a visitation will be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. A mass will begin at 11:00 AM. She will be laid to eternal rest in St. Vincent DePaul Cemetery, 1401 Louisa St., New Orleans, LA 70117.