Marjorie Walters

Marjorie Walters, 84, of Winooski, Vermont, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, at the McClure Miller Respite Home in Colchester, surrounded by the love and support of family and friends. Known affectionately by many names—Marge, Margie, Grandma, "Hammy," and even "Margie Cucaracha" in jest by her nieces and nephews—she was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Born on June 17, 1941, in Burlington, Vermont, to the late Alice McNamara and granddaughter of Anna Wilson, Marjorie grew up with a strong sense of family. She was predeceased by her cherished brothers Tommy and Roger, her sister Marie, her partner of over 45 years Tony Carrasco (who passed in 2019), and her son Luis Santiago (who passed in 2025). Marjorie's passing brings comfort to those who loved her deeply, knowing she is now reunited with so many loved ones.

Marjorie is survived by her daughter-in-love Janice Santiago; granddaughter Andrea Santiago and her fiancé Nausori Osasa along with their children Gibson and Anthony; grandson Stephen Stilianessis; sister Anna Dennis and her partner George Joyal; brothers James Walters, Joseph Walters, Billy McNamara; sister Robin Brown; and their extended families. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandsons above all else but left an indelible mark on every member of her family.

For over 45 years, Marge lived on St. Paul Street in Burlington. While raising Luis there with Tony, she embraced a vibrant community of Latino families and friends through shared meals, music, and dancing. Her porch became a gathering place where conversations flourished as she watched the world go by. After moving to Winooski a couple of years ago, Marge found a new community among the residents of her apartment building. The friendships she formed there were deeply meaningful to her.

Marge's life was filled with cherished moments spent with family and friends. When a fire temporarily displaced her from her Burlington home, she stayed with her nephew Ricky and his wife Tamara and family. During that time, she and Ricky shared countless conversations in the garage—moments filled with laughter and secrets that will remain treasured memories. She delighted in rides with George in his convertible and enthusiastically recounted their adventures to anyone who would listen. Weekly card games with Janice and friends Deanna and Karen became a source of joy after Luis's passing—a time filled with food, music, and laughter so hearty it often brought tears to their eyes.

Throughout her life, Marjorie lived in various places including New York City, Puerto Rico, Connecticut, and New Jersey before returning to Vermont. In NYC, she worked for the Chantilly Perfume Company doing quality control—a job that serendipitously brought her across the street from Tony's garage where they first met. She also worked at the American Bread Company and contributed to helped at a food shelf in Puerto Rico. In Vermont, she called bingo at local events alongside family members and worked on food trucks at auctions and fairs. Later in life, she worked as a housekeeper at the Travel Lodge and Red Carpet Inn until an injury prevented her from continuing.

Marjorie had an extraordinary way of showing love through both words and actions. Her daily "Good morning" and "Goodnight" text messages were small but heartfelt reminders of her care. Her insistence on knowing when loved ones arrived home safely could be annoying but was always rooted in love.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UVMMC who cared for Marjorie over the years—especially Dr. Joseph Lovelace (ER), Ciara Crydege RN, Dr. Kayla Sturtevant from Baird 4—and to the compassionate staff at McClure Miller Respite Home who provided exceptional care during her final days.

Stephen C. Gregory & Son Cremation Services are assisting with arrangements. Marjorie will be laid to rest this summer at Lakeview Cemetery in Burlington when she can take one final ride in George's convertible—a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marjorie's life on Sunday, May 17th from 1-4 PM at New Life Christian Church located at 34 Centre Drive in Milton, Vermont. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her as they honor the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.