Marybel Svigos

Early Life

Marybel was born on August 28, 1971, in Reedley, California, and raised in Orange Cove. She graduated from Reedley High School and later attended Fresno City College, where she met a persistent young man named George Svigos, who eventually won her heart. They were married on January 1, 1997, beginning a partnership marked by steadfast devotion.

Education & Career

Marybel earned her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from California State University, Fresno. She began her teaching career at Burroughs Elementary and soon found her long-term home at Mayfair Elementary, where she touched the lives of hundreds of students with her faith, gentleness, and dedication. Most recently, the Lord opened a door for her to teach second grade at Turner Elementary, where she continued to pour her heart into her students.

Family Life

In 2003, George and Marybel purchased their forever home in Clovis, where they built a life filled with love, faith, and cherished memories. In March 2009, they welcomed their beloved son, John Lucas, whom they lovingly raised in a Christ-centered home.

Her Faith & Character

Beyond the classroom, Marybel’s life was grounded in her deep faith and the simple joys of family. She spent quiet moments reading her Bible and praying, drawing strength from the Lord. Evenings were always family time—sharing dinner together and ending each night with family Bible study. She delighted in encouraging others, spending time with George during his projects and cherishing every conversation with John.

Her Heart & Her Passions

Marybel was known for her patience, kindness, and generous heart. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel valued—her students, church family, friends, and neighbors alike. Many former students returned years later to share how her encouragement shaped their lives.

This past year, she began taking horseback riding lessons, rekindling a lifelong love of horses inspired by her father. She dreamed of owning a horse someday, a reflection of a childhood passion that always stayed with her.

Survivors

Marybel is survived by her loving mother, Leonor; her devoted husband, George; and her beloved son, John. She is also survived by her sister Edith; her brother Jay, whose children are Valerie, Vanessa, Nathan, Matthew, and Arieleen; and her sister Martha and her husband Jay, along with their children Brendon and Jenna. She leaves behind a large extended family and many cherished friends who will hold her memory close to their hearts.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at Grace Church of the Valley, located at 1101 Marion Street, Kingsburg, CA 93631, on December 13, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.

A Graveside Service will be conducted at Redbanks Cemetery, 11648 E Shaw Ave, Clovis, CA 93619, on December 15, 2025, beginning at 10:00 am.

Acknowledgments

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno. Their loving care and dedication will never be forgotten as they were God’s instruments of grace to Marybel and us.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Svigos family.