In Loving Memory of Marion Louise Stanley Sibbett
August 2, 1944 – April 16, 2025
Marion Louise Stanley Sibbett entered her heavenly home on April 16, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and community. She was the daughter of the late Leamon and Letha Stanley. Marion was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Milton “Jerry” Sibbett, and her cherished sister Betty Stanley Gore and brothers Frank, Billy, Keith, and Tommy Stanley. Though parted by time, their memories remain eternally intertwined.
Marion is survived by her devoted son, Greg Sibbett and her two granddaughters who brought her immense pride and joy: Mikayla Sibbett (fiancé Dustin) and Miranda Romans (husband Bobby). She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins who were touched by her strength, humor, and boundless heart.
She was a member of Seven Creeks Baptist Church. Born on August 2, 1944, Marion was a proud graduate of Nakina High School. She later attended Southeastern Community College, where she earned her certification as a CNA—a testament to her lifelong desire to serve and care for others.
Marion’s career was as multifaceted as her personality. She worked with Olan Mills Photography, capturing cherished memories for countless families. She also dedicated her time as a substitute teacher for Columbus County Schools, sharing wisdom and warmth with generations of students. However, one of her proudest civic roles was serving as the Chief Judge of the Nakina voting center. For many years, she was a trusted figure in the democratic process, so much so that she was jokingly and lovingly referred to by many as the “Mayor of Bug Hill.”
Marion’s early life was marked by a profound trial that would shape the remarkable woman she became. At just eight years old, she contracted polio and spent many months in a hospital in Greensboro, enduring numerous procedures, including time in an iron lung. Despite the challenges she faced, Marion never complained. She loved sharing stories of the fun and laughter she shared with her best friend, Barbara Moore, especially their adventures at Dupree Landing on Lake Waccamaw. Marion had a deep love for dancing, and although walking was often difficult for her, she once remarked while watching clogging on television that she hoped one day she would be able to clog too. Without a doubt, that wish is finally coming true today. With the spirit that defined her throughout life, Marion not only survived, she triumphed. Her strength, grace, and unshakable determination in the face of adversity became an enduring inspiration to all who knew and loved her.
To those who knew her, Marion was more than a mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was a HERO. A woman of fierce determination and unshakable will, she never let physical challenges define her. She lived life on her terms, with laughter, love, and an indomitable spirit. Her courage taught others to persevere, her love created a foundation of warmth and connection for her family, and her service to her community left a mark that will not soon fade.
Marion Louise Stanley Sibbett, “Mema/Granny Mary,” was a STRONG, GODLY woman who overcame much, but never lost her joy, her wit, or her deep-rooted sense of purpose. She was truly one of a kind. May her memory be a blessing, and may we all carry a piece of her resilience with us.
Her funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 am Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Seven Creeks Baptist Church by Rev. Glenn Lane. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Her family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 Friday, April 18, 2025 at Inman Ward Funeral Home & Crematory, Tabor City.
