Marion Marie Eldred

Marion Marie Eldred, a cherished soul with an infectious smile and a heart of gold, drew her last breath in the embrace of her daughter Nancy on December 23, 2025, in Niles, Michigan. Born in Hammond, Indiana, on August 15, 1928, Marion became a beacon of strength and love for everyone lucky enough to cross her path. Her 97-year journey on earth was marked by an enduring legacy of family, faith, and community.
Marion's life was woven with deep familial ties. She was born to the late Royal Dewey Stambaugh and Mildred (Herzig) Smith. Her brothers Gerald (Emajean) and Roy (Joyce) Stambaugh and stepbrother Everett Smith all preceded her in passing. Due to the early death of her father, Marion grew up at Mooseheart, a residential childcare facility and school on a 1,000-acre campus near Aurora, Illinois. She, her mother and brothers benefited greatly from their stable home at Mooseheart, which is where Marion met and later married R. Charles Hayden, with whom she shared three children, Marjorie Kervick, currently residing in Lake Placid Florida, Charles (Judith) Hayden, Florida residents for the past 25 years, and Nancy (Dennis) Comfort, longstanding residents of Buchanan, Michigan. Marion has six grandchildren, Kathy DiFranco, Kris (Georgia) Everett, Kimberly (Robert) Dines, Ryan (Gail) Hayden, Jeff Comfort, and Heather (Nathan) Ferrell. She also has six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, all living in the Midwest.
Professionally, Marion served as a talented and resolute Executive Secretary at Clark Equipment Company in Buchanan until her retirement in 1983. Her commitment to work was matched only by her devotion to her Christian faith. As a lifelong member of Grace United Methodist Church (now New Journey), she shared numerous musical talents for more than 60 years, first as an organist and pianist and later as choir director. In recent years, Marion could be found happily ringing the bells and singing with the choir. She cherished music in all forms.
It was at Grace Church that Marion met and fell in love with her late husband and perfectly matched partner, Irving Eldred. They were married for four decades until his passing in 2011. Marion and Irving spent their summers in Niles, winters in Lake Placid, Florida, and traveled throughout the USA in their RV camper. They enjoyed countless cherished moments with their family and church community. Marion also played the piano and directed the choir during their winters in Florida, and loved playing cards, every day if she could.
Beyond her faith, Marion was an avid reader and creative spirit, enjoying traditional hobbies including crochet, knitting, cross-stitch, and sewing. The community knew her as a dear friend and a member of both the local Friday Book Club and The Women of the Moose. She co-chaired the Grace Cookie Walk for many years, raising money to support special programs.
In the last year of her life, Marion found a second family among the residents, caregivers, and staff of Brentwood at Niles Senior Living. The warm and cozy atmosphere at Brentwood, along with Marion's favorite daily activities and field trips, mirrored the comfort she created for others throughout her life. At Brentwood, Marion loved - and was loved by - her new family, many of whom also grieve her passing.
Marion's story here on earth may have ended, but she leaves memories of a life well-lived, and a pattern for others to follow. Her life shall be a guiding star to her loving family and all who were graced by her friendship. Those who knew her best would describe Marion as a faithful Christian, welcoming spirit, and – most notably - she never held a grudge.
A visitation for Marion will be held at Brown Funeral Home in Niles on Wednesday, December 31, from 12:00 to 1:00pm, with funeral services led by Pastor Duane Lindsey following at 1:00pm. Marion will be laid to rest at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens at a later time.
Memorial contributions in Marion's name may be made to New Journey United Methodist Church, 302 Cedar Street, Niles, MI 49120.