Marjorie J. MacKeown

Marjorie J. MacKeown, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and cherished educator, passed away on October 18, 2024, at the age of 83 in Dayton, Ohio. Born on July 10, 1941, in Delaware County, Ohio, Marjorie's life was a tapestry of dedication woven through her profound commitment to teaching and her unwavering love for her family.

After graduating from Union Local High School in Milford Center, Ohio, Marjorie embarked on an academic journey that would shape her career and enrich countless lives. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Muskingum College and furthered her education with a Master of Arts in Education from Wright State University. These accomplishments laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career in education, during which she spent many years at Tecumseh High School. It was here that she imparted knowledge and ignited a passion for learning in her students, earning their lifelong respect and admiration before retiring in 2004.

A member of the NEA, OEA, and TEA, Marjorie also served on the Executive Boards of OCTELA (Ohio Council of Teachers of English and Language Arts) and WOCTELA (Western Ohio Council of Teachers of English and Language Arts), was honored with several Excellence in Teaching Awards including the 2004 OCTELA Outstanding High School English Teacher and the 2004 NCTE Outstanding High School English Teacher.

Marjorie always had a flare for the dramatics. She performed throughout high school, college, and in summer stock at the Red Barn Theater (Gateway Theater) in Long Island where she landed singing and speaking roles in My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, Camelot, and Sleeping Beauty. She shared her love of theater with young people while directing children’s theater in Marion, Ohio and as the Muse Machine Advisor. Marjorie frequented the local theaters, and especially enjoyed taking her granddaughters to shows at the Shuster Center, Dayton Playhouse, LaComedia, and the Human Race Theater.

A devout Presbyterian, Marjorie was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dayton, Ohio. A member since 1982, she volunteered in the church office and served as a Stephen Minister and Stephen Leader as well as a Moderator of the Westminster Presbyterian Women’s Association.

Marjorie is survived by her devoted sons, Graeme Jack MacKeown (Vicki) and Chris MacKeown (Melissa), who carry forward her legacy of love and support. She was also the proud grandmother to Brittany, Gabrielle, Alexandra, Elizabeth, and Danielle, who were the light of her life. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in their achievements and the joy they brought to her life.

Though she leaves behind her beloved family, Marjorie has been reunited in spirit with those who predeceased her, including her cherished parents, Deurelle and Louise Gabriel; her husband, Graeme MacKeown; and her siblings, Deurelle Gabriel, Alice Kaufman, and Jim Gabriel. Their bonds of love and memory continue to shine brightly in the lives of those who remain.

Marjorie J. MacKeown will be remembered not only for her educational contributions but also for her boundless devotion to her family and her warm spirit that touched all who knew her. Her remarkable legacy of compassion, intellect, and love will forever resonate in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

A memorial service celebrating Marjorie's life will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 125 North Wilkinson Street, Dayton, Ohio. The service will commence at 10:00 AM, where friends, family, and members of the community will gather to honor the profound impact she made throughout her life. A gathering of family and friends will follow. 

Arrangements entrusted to Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road.  To share a memory of Marjorie or leave her family a special message, please sign the online guestbook provided.