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Marissa Garcia Obituary
Louisville - 64, passed away July 21, 2019. Marissa was born in Manila, Philippines on December 28, 1954 and came to the United States at the age of 14. She graduated with honors from Western Kentucky University with a B.F.A in Painting and earned her M.A. in Expressive Therapies at the University of Louisville, where she received a Dean's Citation. She was an artist, craftsperson, art therapist, entrepreneur, humanitarian partner, and lifelong learner.
Marissa's life was marked by her spirit of generosity. Anyone who entered her home was offered nourishment, a seat on the couch, and a listening ear. She encouraged us to accept ourselves and each other, and was especially equipped to see others through difficult times. Friends and family, including her niece Jacqueline Gray, continued this tradition by devoting time to caring for Marissa over the last several months.
She is survived by her partner David A. Bratcher; her daughter Melanie Garcia Sympson; and her siblings Elizabeth A. Garcia-Janis, Anna Navarrete, Guia Garcia, Mary Jo Garcia Durbin, Reggie Garcia, Brian Garcia, Lisa Garcia Reger, and Gregg Garcia. She was preceded in death by her brother Enrico Garcia Jr., mother Josephine Bengzon Aquino Garcia, and father Enrico I. Garcia.
A celebration of life will be held this fall in Louisville, Kentucky, details forthcoming. Memorial donations may be made to Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Marissa Garcia
Sponsored by The Courier-Journal.
Tobie Patmas
November 23, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Catherine Kinsey (Hinders)
July 30, 2019
I woke up with a strong urge to see how Marissa was doing on Facebook. She had told me of her condition just two weeks ago. I saw she had translated and I felt so sad loosing a friend I had just rediscovered. I studied art with her at WKU and considered her my closest friend. I can still hear her laugh. She was full of joy and nothing made her happier than to help her friends. I hope to see you again on the other side. I know your family is at a loss without your guiding spirit but I am also sure you taught them to be strong and persevere.
Mary Harbin
July 30, 2019
I ♡'d her, she was beauty & grace. I have several jewelry pieces, some of her soap, 1 of the prints she did from her Mother Teresa painting. I loved her creativity, her spirit & her smile that made you feel warm inside! I'm so happy to have loved her! ♡♡♡
Gary Griffin
July 30, 2019
Just a beautiful woman, talented and loving. i worked with David many years ago and always marveled at her artwork and her devotion to David . Bob Cline, another of Dave's co-workers and I were just at their home a few weeks ago. I could tell she wasn't feeling well, but she didn't say a word about herself.
Rita Yung
July 29, 2019
A beautiful person that I truly miss. She was my spiritual support, true friend, chosen sister. I will always see her in the angels, rock & butterfly she has painted & the jewelry she made for me.
April Graham-Garcia-McGaha
July 29, 2019
She was always so beautiful and kind. She welcomed me into the family with open arms. Her and David shared many talents with me. Memories that I still think about today. Even though June and I parted she always stayed kind and loving to me.
Pam Jeseo
July 28, 2019
She was a blessing. Love and peace to her family and friends.
Laura Graham
July 28, 2019
Her art work expressed her loving heart and soul. I have one of her art works hanging over my bed ❤
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