Marvel Park Singleton

Our beloved mother, Marvel Etta Park Singleton, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at The Commons of Brightmore in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Marvel was born on November 24, 1937 in Kimball, Nebraska, the youngest daughter of Tillie Mary Riha Park and Rex Park. She moved from Nebraska with her family to Denver, Colorado.

While working on the U.S. Army base at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, she met the love of her life. He famously spilled coffee grounds into her typewriter and it was love at first sight. She married Walter Scott Singleton at Fort Leonard Wood, and together they began a beautiful life journey. They soon moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, where they welcomed their first child. Their path later led them to Jacksonville and then Wilmington, North Carolina, where they completed their family with two more daughters.

Marvel and Scott were active members of the Hanover Kennel Club and were both honored as lifetime members, sharing a deep love for dogs and community involvement.

As a devoted stay-at-home mother, she and Scott raised three strong, independent, and grounded daughters. The next chapter of their life took them to Fairfield, Ohio, where Scott resumed his career with General Electric until his retirement. They spent 37 wonderful years in Fairfield, traveling across the country in their RV, carefree and embracing life's adventures together. After 65 grand years of marriage, Scott passed away, leaving behind a legacy of enduring love.

Marvel later returned to Wilmington to be closer to family. She had a remarkable talent for creativity making handmade greeting cards, oil painting, sewing and practicing beautiful calligraphy. Her artistic gifts brought joy to many.

Living independently for many years with her beloved cat, Marvel quickly made new friends in Wilmington. In December 2025, she moved to assisted living, where she was known as a sweet and kind lady who always showed appreciation to those around her. She especially enjoyed attending the painting sessions and spending time with fellow residents. At The Commons of Brightmore, she quickly formed close bonds with her caregivers, cherishing the time they spent with her.

She beamed with pride when speaking of her daughters, anyone who would listen knew exactly what her girls were doing in their lives. She especially looked forward to visits from her physical therapist, Paul with WellCare; Latonya and her team on Oleander Hall; CNAs, Med Techs, housekeeping, dining room and activities staff who cared for her so compassionately. Our family is deeply grateful for their kindness, laughter, and encouragement. As Mom always said, "Bless you."

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Walter Scott Singleton; her sisters, Maryon Joyce Park Braden and Mary Lu Park Bott; and her son-in-law, John Mark Williamson.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters: Cindy Singleton Williamson of Danville, Virginia; Kathy Singleton Strawn (Carl) of Wilmington, North Carolina; and Marietta Leora Singleton of Hemingway, South Carolina. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Bradley Mark Williamson (CaSandra), Stephen Myles Williamson (Cassidy), and Kelley Park Williamson; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who adored her. Mom and Dad also lovingly embraced a kind young woman, Janet Sasser Long of Wilmington, whom they always called their fourth daughter.

After years apart, her heart has found its way home. She now rests in the loving arms of her cherished husband, together again for eternity. We were honored beyond measure to be their children.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hanover Kennel Club. Checks may be made payable to Hanover Kennel Club and mailed to 5205 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28403 or sent via Venmo to @Hanoverkennelclub.

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