Marie Block

Obituary of Marie BlockMarie E. Block, 95, of Citra, Passed away Thursday, December 10, 2015. She was born June 2, 1920 in Long Branch, NJ to James & Henrietta (Berry) Stout. Marie is survived by 3 daughters, Carol (David) Whitehead; Arlene Huey; Cynthia (Danny) Dunbar; 2 granddaughters; Denine Radigan; Rachelle Carley; 1 great grandson, Trystan Radigan. There will be a Celebration of Life Dec. 19, 11am at 1st Presbyterian, 15260 NW 42 Terr; Reddick. Marie grew up in Barnegat, NJ, on the bay, the only girl with 7 younger brothers. Her dad was a clamdigger and her mom took care of the home, made meals from whatever was available and laundry with a washboard. Maries' determination to have a perfect attendance in school had her living the story many of us have heard about; walking a mile to school through wind, rain & snow! Marie completed her goal and earned an award. She later graduated from Barnegat High School, which was rare for a girl at that time.During World War II, "Rosie the Riveter" Marie worked in the aviation factory to support her country, and in the hosiery mills also.Marie married Arthur Block and moved to Toms River. After helping to raise 7 brothers through the Depression, she made it clear if her children turned out to be boys, they would be left at the hospital! Marie fortunately had 3 daughters and became a homemaker during those years. She was a very strict mother and we learned to run fast if we misbehaved as mom was quick with her hand or the cherry switch! As the girls got older, Marie went back to work. The job her family enjoyed most was the donut shop as mom would occasionally bring home a tasty treat! Marie was active in her church, both in choir and as a Sunday school teacher. She was also on a bowling league and brought home many trophies. Later attaining a Real Estate license, Marie sold Florida property through Mackle Brothers and eventually relocated to Florida. Her daughters at various stages in their lives all gravitated to areas in Florida also, where mom's house in Citra became a home base for many family birthdays and holiday dinners.An active member of Reddick First Presbyterian Church, Marie was instrumental in getting the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Gifts project initiated as a mission project that continues today and has helped many children all around the world who don't know the Gift of Christmas to receive a Christmas box. She belonged to the Woman's Circle and attended bible studies regularly. We all looked forward to her deviled eggs or pimento cheese sandwiches during fellowship time after church!Marie was a member of VFW Ladies Auxiliary and the Citra Crafty Quilters, and was also involved with a local church's senior group.Some of her hobbies were gardening, reading and sewing. She was proud of her yard with many varieties of plants and flowers and enjoyed showing them to friends who visited.As the passage of time took its toll on her eyes and her body, she became an avid listener of Talking Books. Oh, and a chocolate pudding and M&M's junkie! Mom spent her final days at home where she wanted to be and her family and minister were with her when she passed on to her new life. A long life, well-lived.

Marie Block

June 2, 1920 - December 10, 2015