I grew up in foster care under Arlington County Social Services and Marianne was mine and my sister, Amelia's caseworker for our last few years of schooling. She was a lovely, kind woman with a joyful nature. Visits with her felt like a friendly neighbor coming over for a nice chat and a few good laughs. She was full of positive energy.

My high school grades weren’t great, though my SAT’s were alright. I thought at best I might attend community college, but thanks to Marianne and my aunt, I was accepted into a good college, about 75% of the cost covered through scholarships and grants. ACSS even provided a monthly living stipend. From what I understand, she and her colleagues were particularly proud of my sister and me for attending college, which is rare for foster kids, and wanted to help us however they could. Finishing my degree opened doors to otherwise unavailable opportunities.

Marianne kept in touch with Amelia and me. Every few years we’d meet at the Carlyle in Shirlington and she'd treat me to lunch. We’d talk about all the goings on in our lives, my time living in Japan, and she met and welcomed my wife to our lunch dates. We last spoke in late 2022 and discussed meeting again soon-ish, deciding to wait a while, over COVID concerns. I didn’t get a holiday card from her that year, but figured she was busy with family and social activities. With no card again this past year, and a few unreturned calls, I found her obituary on the web, learning she had passed a few months after we last spoke. Recently, my wife and I payed respects at her grave, and now I’m taking a moment to express a few words of gratitude for her presence and influence in my life.

So Marianne, thank you! I’m so lucky to have had someone like you in my corner, cheering me on and guiding me toward a successful life as a productive member of society. My life would certainly have been different without you. It has definitely been richer, and for that I will be ever grateful.

 So sorry to learn of Marianne’s passing. We worked together at the Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court for a long time.  Until we meet again.

Barbara Smith

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Marianne Veronica O'Connell

June 20, 1936 – January 24, 2023

Murphy Funeral Homes

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