Marlyse Jeanne Frieda Haward

Marlyse was born on March 18, 1939, in Brussels, Belgium, to the late Robert Martin and Elisabeth Martin-Ziegler. She earned a master’s degree in chemistry from the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), where she went on to conduct research in the laboratory of Nobel Laureate Professor Christian de Duve.

It was during this time that she met her future husband, Charles Haward, and together they began a life journey that brought them to North America—first to Canada, and eventually to Suffern, New York, where they raised their family. Marlyse's professional life began as a teacher. Even after she stepped away from the classroom her passion for teaching never waned. She continued to inspire and guide her children and grandchildren, always encouraging a love of learning. Marlyse was active in many social and charitable circles, including her involvement with the Belgo-American Chamber of Commerce.

Marlyse was a woman of deep intellect, quiet elegance, and great heart. She loved nature and learning about different cultures. She was known for her grace, compassion, and devotion as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Despite living an ocean away, she nurtured a lifelong bond with her sister in Belgium and held her Belgian heritage close throughout her life.

She is survived by her beloved sister Suzy Martin; her husband Charles Haward; her daughter Marlyse Frieda and son-in-law Alexander, and their children Colette, Celine, and Charlie Sawyer; and her daughter Colette Lucie and son-in-law Kabeer, and their children Vivienne and Justin Duggal.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 9th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Wanamaker & Carlough Funeral Home, 177 Route 59, Suffern, NY 10901. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment will be private.

Donations can be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.