Marianne Austin DeHart

Marianne A. DeHart, 80, of Burke, Virginia, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at The Providence in Fairfax, Virginia, after a courageous battle with dementia. She was born on April 4, 1945, in Suffolk, Virginia, to William C. Austin, Sr. and Alice Rose Austin, the youngest of six children.

Marianne was raised in Suffolk and, after graduating high school, attended Mary Washington College, where she earned a degree in Education. She went on to teach in Fairfax County Public Schools for over 30 years. Teaching was not only her profession but her lifelong passion. She began her career at Haycock Elementary School, where she taught first grade for several years before transitioning to fourth grade at Kings Glen Elementary School at the request of a former principal.

Marianne was known for her dedication, often arriving early and staying late to ensure everything was prepared for her students. Organization and attention to detail were hallmarks of her teaching style, and they contributed to her success in a career she had dreamed of since childhood.

In retirement, Marianne devoted herself to volunteer work, particularly with Ecumenical Community Helping Others (ECHO). Among her many roles, she was most proud of founding the Backpack Program, which provided new backpacks and school supplies to local children in kindergarten through 12th grade. Marianne worked diligently, soliciting stores for donations, picking up, preparing, organizing items, and managing a team of volunteers to make the program a success. Although she stepped down following knee surgery, the program—and the friendships she formed through ECHO—remained dear to her heart.

Marianne had many interests beyond teaching and volunteering. She loved movies, Broadway shows, dining out, and spending time with friends and family. She had a deep appreciation for history, reading, crossword puzzles, genealogy, Hallmark movies, holiday decorating, gift wrapping, and helping others in any way she could. Known for her impeccable sense of order, Marianne took great pride in neatness and organization. Whether at home or during her time at The Providence, she was always tidying up, ensuring that everything was in its place—a habit that often made a simple walk down the hall an adventure.

Marianne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas C. DeHart, Jr.; her parents; and her siblings William Jr., Pauline, Evelyn Russell, Richard, and Roy Austin.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen; her son-in-law, Craig; her granddaughter, Quinn; her niece, Deidre; numerous other nieces and nephews and their families; as well as many cherished friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Marianne’s name to ECHO or Insight Memory Care Center.