Sunrise, January 20, 1951 Indianola, Iowa
Sunset, March 30,2022 Gilbert, Arizona
Born to Verlyn Earl McGraw and Mary Elizabeth (Bette) Young McGraw
Marcia loved growing up in Indianola, where she and her brother Steve (Jan) grew up with so many lifelong friends. She attended Indianola Public Schools K-12, and spoke often about the many wonderful teachers. She attended several universities and eventually “came home” and earned her B. A. in Elementary Education from Simpson College, in Indianola.
In 1974 she married David Herr. After a honeymoon in Colorado, they started their life together “on the road” in their VW, as Dave was in a band performing throughout the Midwest.
In the Fall of ’75, they moved to Bellevue, IA where they accepted teaching positions. After two years in Bellevue, the “came home” to Indianola for 9 years. During this time, Marcia taught in the Melcher Dallas school system. It was in Indianola where their two children, Tyler (Meg) and Abbey Brennan (Paul) were born.
In ’87 on a hope and a prayer, the family moved to Gilbert, Arizona just around the corner from Marcia’s former classmate and longtime friend Diane Ackley Pettit. Marcia loved teaching and her students throughout her 21 years teaching 3rd and 4th graders in Gilbert. Over the many years she heard from numerous students and parents that credited their success in part to lessons learned from Mrs. Herr. Marcia retired from teaching in 2007, and helped with grandkids, did scrapbooking, made greeting cards and traveled. The four grandkids, Mckaley, Michael, Emma and Annie were very special to Marcia. They brought a smile to her face as they rode bikes, scooters, played games, did puzzles, read books and played bear cave.
During their 47 year marriage, family always came first, followed closely by Cherry Pepsi, candy canes and chocolate. Together, Marcia and Dave traveled the world, and were “livin’ the dream.” Marcia’s love of sport was passed on to Tyler and Abbey. Marcia attended countless games, meets, matches and close to 100 of Tyler’s college basketball games. Traveling form southern AZ to Alaska, and California to Ohio, enjoying everything about the experience. When she couldn’t attend a game, the radio announcer would be sure to say, “he’s okay Mom,” after a hard foul. She was also excited that Abbey had so many opportunities to play softball, volleyball and basketball in jr high and high school, as Marcia’s opportunities were limited, pre Title IX. As grandkids came along, she cheered and suffered (I mean supported) them through many games, matches, meets, concerts, plays, recitals and programs. Marcia loved it all.
Marcia’s life was cut short by complications from dementia, probably Alzheimer’s. She passed peacefully in the company of loved ones.
There will be a celebration of life to honor Marcia on May 14th at the Gilbert Memorial Park and Cemetery, located at 2100 E Queen Creek Rd in Gilbert. The Celebration will begin at 11 AM, followed by lunch.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation, 2901 N. Central Ave. Suite 160, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Marcia made a difference in the lives of so many people! Students and families were better because of Marcia’s huge heart, infectious smile and wonderful mind. Dave, Tyler and Abbey…you are in our prayers. Thank you for sharing such a remarkable person with everyone in Gilbert Public Schools!
We miss Marcia already. How wonderful it has been to have been a part of Marcia and Dave’s lives through these years. When Tyler and Meg married, it was clear, Marcia, Dave, Greg and I were going to have the title of in-laws but we all made the intention of being friends as well. There is going to be a missing spot on the bleachers while we cheer on Mike and Mckaley but Marcia’s presence will always be felt by them and by us.
I first met Marcia in first grade and was fortunate to go through high school with her and our group of classmates that all had a special connection. She was an outstanding athlete and always had that quick mischievous smile with a twinkle in those beautiful blue eyes. She knew how to have fun and make us all laugh. Rest In Peace Marcia and thank you for the memories of a life well lived.
Steve and Jan
So sorry for your loss. Sending condolences to your family.
Roxanne Shankle
Marcia & Dave became friends on the bleachers when Abby & our daughter Tessie played ball together. She was an avid fan but more importantly an avid mother,
an advocate for anyone’s child on or off the court or field. She knew how to expect & cultivate the best from all people but especially children. She was an elect lady, classy in every way and full of unconquerable zest for life! I am a better person for rubbing shoulders with her. She will be missed but heaven gained an elect angel!