COLUMBIA - Marlene Sprowls Durig, a long-time resident of the Kansas City area, died Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at her home. Marlene, age 78, passed away of natural causes surrounded by loved ones. Marlene Durig was born on October 3, 1937 in Claysville, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Donald William Sprowls and the late Una Clemens Sprowls. She graduated from Claysville High as class valedictorian in 1955. After marrying James Robert Durig in 1955, they moved to Boston for her husband to continue his education at MIT. They both moved to Columbia, SC after her husband finished school to start their family. Marlene supported her husband in his career while adding three children to their family. Upon his retirement from the University of South Carolina in 1993, Dr. Durig was appointed to a position at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Marlene relocated with her husband to Kansas City to help build the next phase of their lives. After moving to Kansas City, Marlene worked to complete her college degree, graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with honors in 2002. Throughout her life, Marlene was an avid world traveler and enjoyed many trips abroad with her family and friends. Both at the University of South Carolina and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, she provided leadership in academic, social, and family related groups and activities. Marlene was always a woman of strong faith. She was a member and an active participant at the Ward Parkway Presbyterian Church. Most importantly, Marlene Durig was a supportive spouse, a loving mother, proud grandmother and reliable friend. She was survived by her father Donald William Sprowls; husband of 60 years, Dr. James Robert Durig; children, Douglas Tybor Durig of Sewanee, TN, Bryan Robert Durig (Marla) of Columbia, SC, and Stacey Durig Hamm (Kurt) of Columbia, SC; and grandchildren, Nicole Elizabeth Durig, Kathryn Ann Hamm, Mallory Deloris Durig, Delaney Marlene Durig, Meagan Heidi Durig, Jamie Durig Hamm, and Laura Grace Hamm. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 10:00 a.m. with burial following at Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends immediately following the graveside service in the chapel. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.
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