Mary Jacqueline Marvel

Mary Jacqueline Marvel “Jackie” passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her three daughters, on February 12, 2026.

Born in New York City on June 16, Jackie was the daughter of John and Helen Koblish and the sister of Janet Ann Utz. She spent most of her youth in Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Jackie earned her undergraduate degree from Duquesne University and a master’s degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh. A passionate reader, writer, and lover of poetry, she devoted her life to teaching and inspiring others through literature.

Jackie married her loving husband, Richard “Dick” Marvel, in Pittsburgh, where they began their family before relocating to Scituate, Massachusetts. There, they spent 30 years raising their children and caring for numerous beloved cats and dogs, reflecting their deep love of animals. While in Scituate, Jackie continued her dedication to education, teaching English for 22 years in the Hingham Public School System.

It was in Scituate that Jackie’s love of the ocean, marshes, and gardening flourished, interests she carried into retirement when she and Dick moved to Aiken, South Carolina. In Aiken, they shared 20 wonderful years together, building the retirement they always dreamed of and forming deep, lifelong friendships. Jackie became both a master gardener and an avid painter. The natural beauty of the South, from the coastal shores of Charleston to the wooded landscapes and wildlife surrounding her home in Aiken deeply inspired the art she loved. The gardens at her home, which she cultivated with such pride, were both an extension of her palette and a lasting source of strength and joy. More than anything else, she loved her family. Jackie was a devoted wife, sister, and mother in all the ways that matter. She will be dearly missed.

Jackie was preceded in death by her husband Dick, who passed away on March 17, 2025. She is survived by her devoted sister, Janet Ann Utz; her three daughters, Lori Marvel, Leslie Marvel Ferriter, and Lisa Pregent; her sons-in-law, Kevin Ferriter and Travis Pregent; and her three grandchildren, who adored their Nana; Kate Jacqueline Ferriter, Harper Helen Pregent, and Henry Marvel Pregent. She is also survived by her niece, Janet Utz Parker, and her nephew, John C. Utz. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, is assisting the family.

To honor Jackie, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.