She was born Marcia Jean Evans on May 24,1943, in Rochester, Pennsylvania to Stella Olshanski and William Mennie Evans. She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Philip John Gallina; her parents; and a sister Kathleen Evans Feathers.
She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Gallina Stronach and her husband Will; and three grandchildren; Alice, Will, and Philip Stronach, all of Raleigh. She is also remembered by her brother-in-law; The Reverend Leo Joseph Gallina of Erie, PA.
Marcia attended Catholic elementary and high schools, graduating from Mt. Gallitzin School for Girls in 1961. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and received her Masters of Education from the University of Pittsburgh.
She met the love of her life, Phil, while she was completing graduate school. They married in 1970. Phil’s work moved the couple across the Northeast until they settled in Fayetteville, NC in 1980.
A lifelong Catholic, Marcia was always active in her church. At Saint Patrick’s she volunteered regularly in the church office and spent many years directing weddings. She contributed her time to many civic organizations and served on many boards, including the Care Clinic, the Fayetteville Animal Protection Society, the Cape Fear Regional Theatre and the Fayetteville Academy. She was President of the Pines Garden Club and a founding member of the Booknuts Book Club. She and Phil were members of numerous social clubs, with Macia often serving as secretary. She joked that she was elected to serve on committees because of her proficient typing skills. Known for her sharp mind, she attained her American Contract Bridge League Life Master rank.
Marcia loved her family more than anything. After the birth of her first grandchild, she moved to The Cypress of Raleigh because she never wanted to miss a moment. Her quick wit and warm personality helped her make friends everywhere she went.
For the past eight years she fought a brave and courageous battle against Parkinson’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia. She never once complained. After a brief battle with COVID-19, she died peacefully, surrounded by her loving caregivers who watched over her during the past 10 months of quarantine.
Marcia leaves behind a legacy of strength and grace. She was the life of the party and will be greatly missed by those who loved her.
Due to COVID-19, a private service will be held Friday for the family at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church in Fayetteville.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Care Clinic of Fayetteville (www.thecareclinic.org), the Fayetteville Animal Protection Society (www.fapspet.org) or to the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh.
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