Marion Jo Markham

Marion Jo Hembree Markham, age 86, was born on September 30, 1939, in Oneida, Tennessee. She passed away on May 25, 2026 at her home in Loganville, GA.

Marion was the daughter of the late Herbert Marion Hembree and Josephine Sexton Hembree. She was also preceded in death by her daughter and ex-son-in-law: Robyn Denise Markham Weiss and Mitchell Warren Weiss Sr., and sibling, Thomas Dewey and his wife (Esther) Hembree, Herbert Hembree, Josephine Hembree.

She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Harold) Smith; grandchildren: Savannah (Steven) Imle, Joseph Smith, Chandler (Mackenzie) Smith, Harley (Carl) Barton, Mitchell Weiss Jr. and Maxwell Weiss, great grandchildren: Peter, Jesse, Ollie and Asher. She is also survived by her sister, Vina Isabelle (Jerry) McIntosh, nieces and nephews, Judson, Andrew, Matthew Hembree, Jody Wallace, Carrie Torres, extended family members, and cherished friends, including her longtime friend, Joyce Wilson.

Marion graduated with honors from Norris High School in 1957 and later graduated from Berea College in 1961. She was known for her intelligence, sense of humor, organization, and striking blue eyes. Family and friends admired her impeccable style and her talent for coordinating every outfit with matching accessories from head to toe.

Marion loved to travel, dance, crochet, shop, watch John Wayne movies, and spend time with those she loved. She found great joy in celebrating Christmas and July 4th with family. She took annual trips throughout the USA with her Berea friends. She went on many cruises with Joyce and her favorite was traveling through the Panama Canal.

Marion was a loving “big” sister and confidante. She always listened and helped when she could. She took Tom and Vina to basketball games, school dances, and movies. As adults, she traveled with Vina from GA to TN to visit family and friends.

Marion will also be remembered for the thoughtful cards she signed with her favorite sentiment: "May you walk in sunshine always." Those words reflected the warmth, kindness, and love she shared throughout her life. Grandy M., as she was called by her family will be missed.

Marion leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, generosity, laughter, creativity, and enduring love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

It was Marion's request to be cremated with interment at Norris Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Graveside service will be held on July 18, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with Reverand Leonard Markham officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude's Children's hospital and your local humane society.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com