Dorothea Lucille Marks

Dorothea Lucile Marks of Washington, went home to be with her heavenly Father on June 12, 2012. She was born in Avella, on September 17, 1918, a daughter of Stephen and Mary Edith Silvers Ertle and graduated from Avella High School in 1936. On October 22, 1944, she was united in marriage with Joseph F. Marks, who passed in 1992. Before retiring to Washington, Mrs. Marks was very active in the Avella community, serving her churches, elected as the only woman to the board of education in the 1950’s, holding offices in the PTA while providing love, guidance and support to her two sons. During her school board tenure, she was instrumental in the expansion of the Avella School District to the Avella District Jointure. As a lady of great faith, Dorothea devoted all of her life to Christian work that included membership in the Presbyterian Church as well as the Franklin Methodist Church. She taught Sabbath School for 35 years, worked with youth activities, Ladies Aid Society and held many offices including deacon and financial secretary. Dorothea enjoyed her role as a homemaker, lovingly preparing meals, canning and baking while finding time with her husband to help those in need. She kept everyone in her prayers, always had a smile on her face, never met a stranger and told everyone “Jesus loves you and so do I.” She is survived by her family whom she loved dearly: her sons, Joseph S. (Noriko) Marks of Warner Robins, GA., Dr. Donald M. (Renee) Marks, of State College; grandchildren, Stephen J. Marks, of Warner Robins, Melissa J. (Andrew Ward) Marks, of Washington, D.C., Matthew D. (Stephanie) Marks, of Atlanta, Abigail L. Marks, of New York City; great-grandson, Nevin G. Ward, of Washington, D.C.; sister-in-law, Marilyn Ertle, of Ohio, and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her twin sister, Helen Irene (Edward) Homendy and her brother, Stephen G. Ertle, Sr. She is the last of her generation. At the request of the deceased, there was no public viewing and a private graveside family committal service was conducted by lay speaker and friend, Mike Krajacic. In lieu of flowers, direct your generosity to Dorothea’s favorite charity, Billy Graham at BGEA#1, Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.