Marie Walbert

Mrs. Marie Cavanaugh Walbert, 92, passed away April 18, 2018, at her home surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her husband Norris Walbert. It is difficult to speak of Marie without referencing Norris due to their great love for each other. Duke and Duchess as they referred to each other was a love story. They shared a rhythm that was visible, especially when they danced. In 1947, Marie Cavanaugh a 98# beauty married the dashing and cocky Marine, Norris Walbert. They raised four ornery and very different children; daughters, Deborah Hemingway (David), Frances Collier (James); sons, Christopher Walbert (Tamyra, deceased) and Josh Walbert (Daniel Dreyer). Each child inheriting smatterings of their virtues: kindness, bravery, ingenuity, and patience. The children were also imbued with endearing family traits such as opinionated, bad tempered, bossy, and over confidence. As grandparents do, Marie and Norris loved and spoiled their eight grand and twelve great grandchildren. In 1997, Marie and Norris moved from their birth place, Baltimore, MD to King, NC to be close to their daughter, Fran and husband Jim, who live in Winston-Salem, NC. Here they settled into a relaxed lifestyle spending time in their new home. They enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels in their backyard. Later when their health began to decline they moved in with Fran and Jim. Marie dedicated her life to the American Legion Auxiliary where she participated in programs that helped veterans, elderly, sick, disabled, and children with special needs. In various officer positions, Marie participated in countless fund raisers to support many community programs. Marie's attitude of servitude extended throughout her life. When her mobility became severely impaired she still offered her assistance even when it was obvious it was beyond her physical limitations. Marie enjoyed her sweets, but set a goal of only three chocolates per day; a goal she frequently missed. Marie had a healthy fear of heights and small spaces but persevered across bridges and through tunnels for her children as any momma bear would. Those who met her quickly fell in love seeking from her that motherly hug and inviting smile. Marie is the last of her kind. A generation of people who gave generously, thought of others, and defended the weak. As is so often with the last of a kind, Marie leaves us without thunder but drifted quietly in the night.
The family will be having a private memorial. Norris and Marie's inurnment service will take place June 14, 2018, on their 71st anniversary date, at Meadow Ridge Memorial Park, Elkridge, MD. The family extends special thanks to the compassionate care extended to Marie by her caregivers and Hospice & Palliative Care. They would like for those reading this to honor her life by doing acts of kindness, hug your loved ones and have love in your heart to strangers.