Marie Elena Gensel

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Marie Elena Gensel, 61, on March 13th, 2026, in Virginia Beach, Viriginia. Marie was born on January 4th, 1965, in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey where she spent her childhood. She graduated from Point Pleasant Beach High School; and followed her dreams of marriage and motherhood.

Never a dull moment when you entered the room, from your infectious smile, your curly hair, your lively spirit, your strength, your spunk, your grace, all felt in a whirlwind of love and laughter. The true life of the party, first to the dance floor to start the “Electric Slide”, and the last to leave, always keeping it “Cruisin”. The OG of the Aunties, a master class poker player, a baton twirler, and a true lady of the bowling leagues. Teaching generations to roller skate, hula hoop, play a mean game of Jax’s, and kindly but always competitively our traditional family game of Penny Pinochle.

Mother of the Year, Auntie of the Century, and Grandma of the World. She earned this title, a proud mom, a legacy of love, from daily calls, and warm hugs, a person that took care of all of us, that truly made being a mom look seamless. Happiest when making meals for her family, dancing in the kitchen, and keeping our holiday traditions solid. You were famous for your coffee, a rite of passage for each of us, handing us family stories for years. You kept our secrets, you always had our back, and were thoughtful in everything you did, you were our rock and kept us safe. A haven for many generations, while never fully understanding your worth in our worlds. We will forever thank you for this.

A proud Jersey Italian woman, a military wife, Steeler’s fan, from the boardwalk to the pool, you rocked that bikini like no other, giving legs for days. Your love of your four-legged pets, your infamous Knoebel trips, Halloween parties, your mornings in Key West watching the sunrise, with a glass of Prosecco on Duval Street. Always up from some Eggs Beni at the diner, waiting for the sound of the rolling thunder, a shot of Sambuca, a video camera on her shoulder, a purple streak of hair, or a casual Twisted Tea, attending “Pink Rider” or “Girls on the Run”, your legacy is unique, it is beautiful, and it is truly Marie.

Let’s raise a glass of strawberry wine one and give one last pull of the crack machine….

To our strength, and our heart, until next time we meet. You’ve held our traditions strong and kept our family truly nostalgic, teaching and showing us, continuing your brilliant legacy. Through each of us, your life will continue to shine. We are taking the baton, we promise, we got this my love, no worries, it is time to rest.

Marie is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughter Julanne Charlotte Gensel (Strobbe), and son-in-law Brandon Strobbe, her three grandchildren, Zoey, Alexis, and Steven Strobbe. Deeply missed by her partner in crime, life, and best friend, Sal Cammilleri; cherished forever by her siblings, Beverly, Kathy, Charles, and Timothy and affectionately missed by her many nieces, nephews, and their families. Marie was predeceased and resting with her husband, Steven Gensel.

Please join us once more in honor of Marie’s life and celebrate by wearing purple, enjoying some food, stories, and meet us at ~ Inland Reef, 1949-1588 Lynnhaven Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23453 at 2:00 PM.

For individuals traveling please note discounted travel assistance available through Dignity Memorial. Call - 800.224.4177 - Ref#4702.

For those who cannot attend we will be streaming the services via live link - https://evt.live/marie-s-celebration-of-life.