Marcie G. Garritt passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, surrounded by her beloved husband, David; her daughter, Sara; and her faithful dogs, Makaa and Laila.

Marcie’s remarkable life began on September 27, 1945, in New York City, the second daughter of Robert H. Garritt, Jr. and Betty Timberlake Garritt, she later became a proud big sister to two brothers. Her formative years were spent in Dover, Massachusetts, and as a graduate of Beaver County Day School, Marcie shone in academics, music, drama, and athletics—early signs of the energy and passion she would bring to every chapter of her life.

She continued her education at Wilson College, majoring in sociology and excelling once again in sports (oh, the hockey stories), drama, and activism. It was there that she formed lifelong bonds with “the girls,” friendships that sustained and inspired her for decades.

Sensing that her purpose extended far beyond office walls, Marcie joined the Peace Corps and served in Kenya—an experience she described as “eye opening and life changing.” Upon returning to the United States, she felt called to a career of service. What began as a two-year commitment with Indian Health Services blossomed into a 20+-year vocation. She attended Cornell University to become a Public Health Nurse, and her first assignment brought her to Shiprock and Tuba City, Arizona, where she served Navajo, Hopi, and Southern Paiute communities.

Her sense of wonder and dedication eventually led her to the Eastern Shoshone Tribe on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Fort Washakie, Wyoming—where she met the love of her life, David Rebner. They married in August 1983 and made their home in Lander, Wyoming, until Marcie’s final professional adventure took her to Chemawa Indian School in Salem, Oregon, where she devoted many years to the students and community there.

Marcie and David resided in St. Paul, where she advocated for the community through her involvement with the town planning commission and historic preservation, and found peace and joy in the misty shores of Cannon Beach. In retirement, Marcie embraced her family roots through genealogy and traveled with David to Ireland, deepening her connection to heritage and history.

Throughout her life, Marcie championed countless just causes—too many to list—but she held particular passion for Habitat for Humanity, the American Civil Liberties Union, and Oregon Public Broadcasting. Those wishing to honor her may consider supporting these organizations.

Marcie is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Greg, and many beloved dogs who were part of her family through the years. She is survived by her devoted husband and best friend, David; her children Sara (Michael and their children Kayla, Kelsie, Elaine, and Grady), Seth (and daughter Paige), and Jason; her sister Timi (Peter and their children, spouses, and grandchildren); her brother Hap (Margot and their daughter); and her sister-in-law Carol.

A celebration of Marcie’s life will be held at a later date, followed by inurnment at the St.
Paul Catholic Cemetery.