Marjorie “Margie” Lee Rowland Champion, 96, quietly passed away Monday, Nov. 9, 2015, at La Posada – Mesilla Valley Hospice in Las Cruces, four days short of her 97th birthday and surrounded by the love of family and friends.
“Margie,” as she was fondly known, was born Nov. 14, 1918, in Lakewood to Arthur and Ivy Lee (McLain) Rowland. She graduated from Artesia High School in 1937.
On April 15, 1939, she married Clyde Champion in Roswell.
An exceptional wife and mother, Marjorie will be remembered for her easygoing ways and her irrepressible sense of optimism. All conversations were punctuated with her laughter, and she knew there were no problems that couldn’t be made bearable by looking on the bright side. She lived by the “judge not…” philosophy. Her kindness, creativity and compassionate nature made her a favorite with all who knew her.
Marjorie was an active community member. She was a leader in the scouting programs for both boys and girls, as well as a leader in the Eddy County 4-H Club. As a member of the PTA for eight years, she served as a room mother for both her son and daughter. She was also a member of the Eddy County Extension Club and enjoyed many hobbies, including sewing, home decorating, gardening, cooking, reading, and most of all, dancing.
According to her wishes, a private service will be held at a later date. Her life touched many, and she will be greatly missed.
Survivors include son Richard Champion and wife Janis of Artesia; daughter Betty Champion and son-in-law Donnie Vaughn of Las Cruces; six grandchildren, Lauri, Beth, Jedd, Wade, J.D. and Ryder Champion; five great-grandchildren, Cody, Chase, Quinton and Kyle Champion and Danielle Whatley; and five great-great-grandchildren, Haylie Parks, Tuff and Bronx Champion, and Caden and Jaxon Whatley.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Clyde Champion; her parents; all of her seven siblings, Ruby Modes, Ora Fine, Ruth Brown, Charles Rowland, Dorothy Rathbone and Bettynell Alexander, and an infant sister, Mary Alice Rowland.
The family appreciates the loving care and compassion provided by Mesilla Valley Hospice and the amazing staff.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to La Posada – Mesilla Valley Hospice, 299 E. Montana Ave., Las Cruces, N.M., 88005.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baca’s Funeral Chapels and Sunset Crematory of Las Cruces. Condolences may be expressed online at www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com.
