Marie G. Keller

Date of Death: October 22, 2015

Amherst Chapel

1600 Amherst Street

Winchester, VA 22601

Thursday 10/29, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Braddock Street United Methodist Church

Friday 10/30, 11:00 am

Mt. Hebron Cemetery

305 E Boscawen St

Winchester, VA 22601

Friday 10/30

Marie Garber Keller was born on October 4, 1927 in Winchester, Virginia. She was baptized as an infant at Braddock Street Methodist Church South. She attended John Kerr Elementary School and graduated from John Handley High School in 1945. She graduated from Madison College in 1949 and earned her Master’s Degree in Education from George Washington University while she taught school in Alexandria, Virginia. She married James R. Keller in November, 1956. They lived in Columbus, Ohio for four years and moved back to Winchester in 1961.

Mrs. Keller was a guidance counselor from 1970-1989 at Winchester Intermediate School and then at Daniel Morgan Middle School, as Director of Guidance. She served on the Winchester City Council from 1990-1994. Her club activities included Virginia Federated Garden Club; Lord Fairfax Garden Club; PEO; Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society for women educators; American Association of University Women; and Lord Fairfax Soil and Water Commission. She was a lifelong member of Braddock Street United Methodist Church where she served as past-president of the Jubilee Class and on the Virginia State Methodist Commission for the Status and Role of Women.

Mrs. Keller was devoted to her family. Preceding her in death was her husband, James R. Keller; her parents, Pearl Sheetz Garber and Homer B. Garber; two brothers, Howard Garber and Glen Garber; and two sisters, Cathryn Alger and Gladys Peck. She is survived by her three daughters and their husbands; Elizabeth and Wilson Whitehurst, Ellen and Scott Kinser and Susan and Matthew Pascocello; seven grandchildren; William Scott Kinser, Jr., Julia Kinser, Joy Whitehurst, Katie Kinser, Emily Kinser, Claire Pascocello and Alexander M. Pascocello; a great-granddaughter, Hayden Kinser; and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the loving community of The Village at Orchard Ridge, including her friends, the staff, clergy and caregivers.

The family will receive friends on Thursday evening October 29, 2015 from 6-8 pm at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 30, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Braddock Street United Methodist Church with the Reverend Kirk Nave officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Hebron Cemetery.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Braddock Street United Methodist Church – Jonah’s Clubhouse, 115 Wolfe Street, Winchester, Virginia 22601.

Misty

[email protected]

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My visits with Uncle Jim and Aunt Marie and my cousins, Elizabeth, Susan and Ellen were highlights of my family's trips to Winchester. I loved to see her smile at me. My thoughts are with all of you and your families in this time of loss.

Mrs. Keller was one of the nicest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. She always inquired about me, well after I left Winchester. My parents would always keep me up to date when I was away, and when I was in town I loved sitting with her and hearing her stories. She will be truly missed. Misty

I am so sorry for your loss. My mother passed a little over two years ago and not a day goes by that I don't think of her. All I can add is my belief that as long as we keep them in our heart, no loved one is ever truly gone.

For Marie's family, I got to know Marie about 25 years ago through PEO. For several years she was in my carpool, and our drives to and from the meetings were just as much fun as the meetings themselves. I looked forward to hearing about her grandchildren, her flowers, and other exciting events in her life. She was always cheerful and positive. Her big smile, friendliness, and sage advice will be greatly missed.

So sorry for the loss of your Mother. I worked with her at DMMS and appreciated her love of the students. I was able to reconnect with her through Blue ridge Democratic Women and visiting friend at the village. Sending hugs and prayer to you and your families.

Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.

We are sorry for your loss. Mrs. Marie Keller was a very special lady. She had such a generous heart for others and served her community well. May you have the peace that passes understanding as you cherish your memories.

Liz, Ellen, and Susan, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Throughout the years I have known Liz, I have enjoyed hearing about the lives of both your parents. Your mom's involvement in the community, the many stories of the jeans store, and your dad's wonderful jokes. They were filled with life and life was filled for them with children, grandchildren and friends. My heart and thoughts are with you all.

Dear Susan, My deepest condolences and know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Donald

So sorry we are out of town and cannot attend the services. Marie was a great lady and I enjoyed working with her. She served us well on City Council. She will be missed. Sincere condolences.

Aunt Maria was a blessing too all. I always enjoyed the good fellowship at our Wednesday family lunches. They were always full of good will and happy times. My prayers go out to Elizabeth, Ellen and Susan.

Aunt Marie is one of the most angelic, kindest, warmest and non-judgemental people we will ever know. Her engaging beautiful spirit will be remembered in our hearts forever. Deepest regards and prayers go out to her daughters and the whole family. She will be very missed

Dear Liz, Susan, and Ellen, We are holding you and your families in our prayers. Fondly, Russell and Debbie Perkins

Aunt Marie was such an interesting, loving and kind woman. She had a presence and light that let you know she was interested and paying attention to who you are. I am holding Susan, Liz, and Ellen and all their children in the light. May Marie's entire family be held in grace and love.

Susan, Ellen, & Liz, I was so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. She was a wonderful person. I always looked up to her. I remember how much she loved her garden in the backyard. She had such a wonderful light. May all your memories help sustain you through this difficult time. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you.

Susan, Ellen, and Liz, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. She was always such a wonderful, positive person. She was my guidance counselor at Daniel Morgan, and she made a huge impact on my life during a very difficult time...and that impact made such a positive difference. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this time.

Aunt Marie has been a blessing in my life from the day I was born. Her constant smile and love will be truly missed. Kathryn Garber Pirio

So very sorry to hear about the death of Mrs. Keller. My sympathy goes out to all the Keller girls and families. Marie was a good friend to my mother which goes back to Parkway Ave before any of us were born. Her deep faith and friendship helped my mother through her illness. I remember her as a good Sunday school teacher during my early years and also remember a few sleepovers with Elizabeth. I have fond memories of both Mr & Mrs Keller. May God Bless you all.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.