Marion Stokely

Marion May Stokely passed away Tuesday, April 5, 2011. She was born on August 15, 1921, to Edward Goatley and Emily Sophia Lambourne in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. She became a naturalized American citizen as a young girl and was educated in Cleveland, Ohio. She married Bennett Stokely on June 26, 1941, in Bay City, Texas. Her marriage to Bennett gave her the opportunity to live in the oil communities of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Lafayette, Louisiana, before moving to West Texas.

Her professional career included working for a division of Dow Chemical during World War II, serving as church secretary for St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and an accounting clerk for John L. Cox. She was a member of the Methodist Women’s Society/Wesleyan Service Guild, High Sky Emmaus Community and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, as well as life member of Eastern Star. Marion and her husband, Bennett, enjoyed many years of square dancing and traveling with friends in the Sash-a-way and M Square clubs. She was also active in several couples bridge groups as well as a singles group with wonderful friends.

Marion was the backbone of her family and was very active in the lives of her children. She served as den mother and scout leader for her children’s troops as well as church day camp leader. She took great pleasure in her grandchildren and was an important part of their lives. She was a woman of great faith, wit and integrity. Her strong sense of humor brightened the lives of those around her. She lived by example and inspired all who knew her. A loyal and compassionate person, she enjoyed the gifts of many close friendships.

Her last few years were enriched by the love and nurturing of the staff at Manor Park. The family would like to thank Dr. Robert Vogel for his care in making her last years comfortable.

Marion was preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Bennett Stokely.

She is survived by a son, Stephen Stokely, of Houston, Texas; a daughter, Carolyn Hooper, of Midland; granddaughters Laura Hooper of Ft. Worth, Texas, Melissa Hooper of Arlington, Virginia, and Rachel Hooper of Midland. Other survivors include sister-in-law Vi Ross, niece Charlotte Windecker and husband Ted, and their son, Forrest, as well as several nieces and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 pm on Thursday, April 7, 2011, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, the Manor Park Foundation, the Salvation Army or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the