Mardella "Marty" Zilem-Shawver, affectionately known as Marty but preferring Mardella, gracefully passed away on January 15, 2023. Born on January 31, 1930, Mardella lived a life filled with love, wisdom, and kindness. Her legacy, a testament to a kind and gentle soul, lives on through those who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Julie Carnessali, and her cherished granddaughter, Desiree Carnessali. Mardella's family was her pride and joy and constituted one of her greatest accomplishments in life. Her children and her pursuit of education, even in the autumn of her life, were a testament to her tenacity and determination.

Mardella had a fondness for simple pleasures - Pamento Cheese was a favorite food, water her preferred drink, and the Bible her cherished book. Shopping and cooking shows brought her joy, along with visits to her beloved local spot, China Max. In her leisure time, she enjoyed recreational activities at Macy's, adding a touch of style and class to her everyday life.

Endearingly described as 'kind, always gentle, and the sweetest person I knew', she carried a heart overflowing with compassion. Slow to anger and always forgiving, Mardella's character was an embodiment of grace and tranquillity. Her favorite color, white, mirrored her pure and loving heart.

She was committed to causes close to her heart, particularly advocating for the well-being of children. Mardella strived to instill valuable lessons in others, including the importance of cleanliness, mastering office management, and the life-affirming belief that it's never too late to learn or work. Her wisdom echoed the phrase, 'when you think you're too old to do something, it's just the devil trying to bring you down'.

Mardella leaves behind a legacy of a good heart that touched everyone she met. Those left to cherish her memory find comfort knowing they will reunite with her in the Lord's embrace someday. Her life, a tapestry of kindness, forgiveness, and resilience, will continue to inspire those who knew her.

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