Marianne Bergfield

Marianne Bergfield, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, at the age of 96, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born on December 28, 1928, and was known to those closest to her as “Mema.”

Marianne’s life was one full of adventure, love, and joy. She was a woman of many talents and interests, always approaching life with enthusiasm and an infectious spirit. Whether she was playing bridge with family and friends, outsmarting opponents in poker with her legendary tactics, tending to her garden, or hitting the golf course with passion and skill, Marianne lived life to the fullest. A devoted golfer, she was an integral member of the Panorama Women's Golf Association, where she not only excelled but also championed the organization’s mission, holding various leadership roles, including president. She was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication and love of the game.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Marianne attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she joined Chi Omega Sorority and met the love of her life, Bill Bergfield. Guided by the Lord’s hand, a chance encounter led to 54 years of a beautiful marriage before God called him home 21 years ago. Together, they embarked on a journey that took them through life’s highs and lows, always side by side. Marianne was as much a part of Bill’s endeavors with the Pony Baseball organization as she was of their family life, always supporting him and their community. Her commitment to others and to making a difference was evident throughout her life.

Marianne was the proud mother of two sons, Randy and Jeff, and a homemaker whose love and wisdom shaped the lives of her children. She was an inspiration to her family, and her nurturing spirit extended to her six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom she loved deeply. As a homemaker, Marianne poured herself into creating a warm, loving environment for her family. She treasured time with her grandchildren and had a special bond with each of them, always offering her wisdom, guidance, and affection. Known for her infectious energy, she was the one everyone wanted to be around—her outgoing nature and zest for life were magnetic.

Marianne also had a deep love for animals, especially her toy poodle, Angie, who was a cherished companion for the past 10 years. She raised Angie from a puppy, and the two were inseparable, with Angie always near Marianne’s side (or in her lap) as she enjoyed life to the fullest.

A lifelong Christian, and current member of Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church in Hot Springs Village, Marianne was active in her faith and community, always seeking to give back. She and Bill built their dream home in Panorama Village, Texas, a place that became a hub of wonderful memories and many lifelong friendships.

Marianne believed in living a life free of limitations, never revealing her age because she refused to let it define her. She was the epitome of the phrase “quality over quantity,” always making the most of every moment and outworking or outplaying anyone who was lucky enough to join her in life’s adventures.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill, and her son, Jeff. Marianne is survived by her son Randy and his wife Nora, her daughter-in-law Patty, her six grandchildren: Jennifer Covert, Alan Bergfield, Kathryn Savage, Lauren Rizzo, Michael Bergfield, and Matthew Bergfield, as well as her nine great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored.

Marianne’s legacy of kindness, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the honor of knowing her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit and passion for life will never be forgotten.

Charitable donations should be made to CHI St. Vincent Cancer Research Center and to the "Village Walk" for Cancer Research.

A memorial service for Marianne will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Christ Of The Hills United Methodist Church, 700 Balearic Rd, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909.