Sarah Marvin Tracey

Mrs. Sarah Marvin Tracey, a devoted mother, gifted baker, and proud Florida Native, passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, September 10th. She was 79 years old. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, to Roger and Frances Marvin, Sarah embodied the grace and warmth of a true Southern Belle. She grew up in Avondale, where she made cherished childhood memories playing in Willowbranch Park with her lifelong friend, Kris. Her parents, well-known local business owners in Murray Hill, instilled in her a love of family, community, and tradition that she carried throughout her life.

Sarah was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Tracey Sr.; her parents, Roger and Frances Marvin; and her younger brother, Robert Marvin. She is survived by her two loving sons, Donald “Donnie” Tracey, Jr. of Wichita, Kansas, and Robert “Robby” Tracey of Jacksonville, Florida, along with Robby’s partner, Brian Woolard. Her boys were her world, and she was their tireless advocate, cheering them on at school events, youth groups, and cross-country meets, always with more than enough snacks packed to share.

A woman of many talents, Sarah was a fantastic seamstress who poured her love into making clothes for her family, especially for her sons when they were young. She was also an accomplished baker, delighting friends and family alike with her famous banana bread, oatmeal cookies, and her legendary chocolate chip cookies proudly made with three different kinds of chocolate chips! Every fall, her seasonal pumpkin bread became a tradition eagerly awaited by all who knew her.

Sarah had a well-known fondness for butter, always insisting on “a little bread with her butter,” which brought laughter and smiles to many family meals. Her joy in the kitchen and her generous heart made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Sarah was also a proud survivor of pancreatic cancer, a testament to her immense strength and determination. She always faced life’s challenges with courage, grace, and an unwavering love for her family and friends.

Above all, Sarah will be remembered as an amazing mother, a wonderful wife, a loyal friend, and a woman whose kindness and warmth touched the lives of countless people. Her memory will live on in the recipes passed down and the love she instilled in her sons.

The family takes comfort in knowing that Sarah is reunited with her husband and family in heaven, her spirit entirely at peace. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Sarah will be interred with her husband at Jacksonville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donating in Sarah’s honor to First Coast No More Homeless Pets or Community Hospice and Palliative Care at the Alice and T. O’Neal Douglas Center for Caring.