Marlene Healy Stirewalt

October 5, 1936 – July 6, 2026

Marlene Loretta Healy Stirewalt, 89, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026.

Born on October 5, 1936, in Fall River, Massachusetts, Marlene lived a life filled with adventure, laughter, creativity, and love. Throughout the years she called many places home, including El Monte, California; Augusta, Georgia; Linville Falls, North Carolina; Port Royal, South Carolina; and finally Lexington, South Carolina. No matter where she lived, she left behind lasting friendships and cherished memories.

On June 24, 1956, Marlene married the love of her life, Harvey Lee Stirewalt. Together they built a family and shared nearly 47 years of marriage before Harvey’s passing on August 23, 2003.

Marlene is lovingly survived by her three children: Harvey Stirewalt Jr. (Dorothy Stirewalt), Cheryl Baxter (Jerry Baxter), and Frank Stirewalt (Candy Stirewalt); her three grandchildren: Nicole Klumb (Scott Klumb), Healy Baxter (Emma Baxter), and Marly Purvis (Hunter Purvis; and her seven great-grandchildren: Owen, Shane, Ellie, Charli, Addie, Jo, and Kate.

Marlene had a zest for life that was contagious and a heart that welcomed everyone she met. She never knew a stranger, and if she happened to meet one, they weren’t a stranger for long. An avid painter, she found joy in expressing her creativity and exploring the beauty of the world. She especially loved the Blue Ridge Mountains, but also treasured travels to places like Hawaii and China. Whether she was gathered around the table playing Chicken Foot, Mexican Train, card games, or sharing one of her favorite jokes, Marlene’s laughter and joyful spirit brought people together.

Family was the center of her life, and the memories she created with those she loved will continue to be treasured for generations.

The family will gather later this month for a private memorial service to return Marlene to the place she always considered home and loved most—the mountains.

If Marlene could leave us with one final message, it would be the words she so often shared:

“Have a great day… and pass it on.”