Victoria Marrin

Victoria Marrin (née Balls), a beloved wife,  mother, friend, and community member, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2023, at the age of 69. Victoria, who preferred to go by Vicki, was born in Rye, NY, spent much of her life in Somers, NY, and later retired to Columbia, SC. 

Vicki valiantly fought leiomyosarcoma and joked that her odds were better for winning the lottery than having this rare form of cancer (“and I couldn’t have won the lottery?”). 

During her career, she was a valued administrator working at General Foods and local schools (to name a few.)

After retiring to Columbia, SC, Vicki found new passions to fill her time.  Always curious and learning, she took classes at the University of South Carolina, earned a degree as a Master Gardener, and volunteered at local farmer’s markets answering gardener’s questions. She created archival records of plants at the Clemson Herbarium (where she volunteered), which she believed would last for generations.  

She participated in The Senior Games (Olympics), taking home medals for her efforts.  She was always involved in the community, participating in Tai Chi and learning new skills such as pickleball and cornhole. Throughout her life, she enjoyed roles as an archery instructor, Scout Master, motorcyclist, majorette, cereal box artwork coordinator and product tester for General Foods, camper, avid party planner, and the engineer behind many happy Christmases and other celebrations. She liked to drink coffee and tea with friends and to stop and smell the roses. 

Vicki was known for her kind heart, sharp wit, and love of puns.  She left this note on ones to include in her obituary – She wasn’t a “mourning” person and thought this was quite an “undertaking.” She had a way with words that would leave everyone with a smile on their face.  

Vicki was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who cherished time spent with her loved ones. She will be deeply missed by her spouse Owen, children Christopher (Lisa) Marrin, Laura (Matthew) LeMar, Owen (Karmen) Marrin, Jeanne (Jay) Simpson, and Susan (Keith) Gil, and nine grandchildren, sister Beth (Shane) Murphy as well as many other beloved family members who will remember her for her love and friendship. She also leaves behind a lifelong best friend, Suzelle, and a loyal cat named Virgil.  Vicki was predeceased by her mother, father, and brother Edward.

Though Vicki is no longer with us, her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her. Her children will always treasure the time spent together and will carry on their mother’s legacy with pride. Vicki’s life was a gift, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come. May she rest in peace knowing that she has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation.