Marie Grace Swenson Ibbetson

Marie Grace Swenson Ibbetson, age 83, of Maryville, TN, passed away this weekend surrounded by her loving family. Born in Erie, PA, she briefly attended Thiel College before receiving her Bachelor’s and two Master’s degrees from Eastern Michigan University, graduating with Phi Kappa Phi honors. She taught elementary school with the Ypsilanti Michigan Public School District and worked with statewide organizations and regional school districts focusing on substance and alcohol abuse prevention. Wherever she lived, Marie was an active member of her local churches, singing in their choirs and teaching Sunday School. She never met a committee she didn’t like, serving her communities on countless boards, committees and projects. She will be remembered for her deep faith, strong intellect and endearing ability to connect to everyone she met.

Marie was predeceased by her parents, Royal D. and Irma (Grace) Shepard, and her first husband, Jon E. Swenson, Sr. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Fred Ibbetson; sister, Dr. Lynne Shepard; sister-in-law, Barbara Fairfax; children: Marianne (John D’Alessandro) Swenson, Jon E. (Trudi Haddell) Swenson, Jr., Melinda (James) McNutt, Michael (Marci) Ibbetson, Bruce (Patricia Kelly) Ibbetson; special nephew Chris (Patty) Ibbetson; grandchildren: Katie, Kimberly, Jessica, Megan, Brianne, Samantha, Josh and Kristen; seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be at 1:00 PM, Friday, August 11, 2023, at Fairview United Methodist Church with Rev. Gilbert Harris officiating.  A receiving of friends and reception will be held immediately following the service in the Fellowship Hall.  The interment will be at 10:00 AM, Monday, August 14, 2023, at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery-John Sevier.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Marie’s memory to the public service charity of your choice.