Marjorie Louise Whitney, 96, of Traverse City, MI, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Marjorie was born on December 11, 1927, in Dearborn, Michigan, to the late Herman and Helen (Schoenbine) Stieve. On December 25, 1948, she married her beloved late husband, Delbert J. Whitney, in Beaver Township, Michigan, and together they raised three cherished daughters.

Marjorie had a fulfilling career as an office assistant for Dow Chemical, where she was deeply appreciated by her colleagues. Alongside her husband, she co-owned Whitney Florist in Midland, Michigan, where her passion for gardening flourished. Marjorie's love for tending to her gardens and filling her yard with vibrant flowers brought joy to all who knew her.

In 1997, Marjorie and Delbert relocated to Traverse City, where they became active members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. She found great pleasure in flower arranging, crafting, and nurturing her floral creations. Marjorie's creativity and kindness touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting legacy of beauty and warmth.

Marjorie will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit and love for life will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have shared in her journey.


She is survived by her daughters Susan (David) Cell, Sheril (Mark) Walkowiak, and Caleen (Daniel) Chichester; grandchildren, Eric (Rachel) Cell, Michael (Kathy) Cell, Patrick (Anne) Cell, Justin (Amanda) Walkowiak, Kyle (Christine) Walkowiak, Travis Walkowiak, Becky (Neil) Freebury, Katie (Joe) Mester, Cody Chichester, Stacy (Steve) VanderVoord, 16 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren and many other loving family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Delbert and her brother Richard Stieve.

A celebration of Marjorie's life will be held at 4pm on Monday, April 15, 2024 at The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City with a visitation held one hour prior. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .