Marion Courtney

Marion Courtney, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 5, 1931, Marion dedicated over 30 years of her life working as a claims representative for the Social Security Administration, where she was known for her unwavering kindness and diligent service.

Granny was the heart of her family. Known for her warm spirit and nurturing nature, she created a home that was a welcoming haven for family gatherings. Every Thanksgiving, her kitchen would come alive with the rich aromas of her cooking, particularly her famous pretzel salad, affectionately dubbed "pink stuff," and her mouthwatering turkey and dressing. Those meals became cherished memories that would be recounted in laughter and joy year after year.

Family meant everything to Granny. She loved her children and grandchildren deeply, always nurturing their dreams and supporting their endeavors. Her home was not just where they came to eat; it was where they gathered to celebrate life’s milestones—birthdays, holidays, and achievements were marked with love and joy in the vibrant atmosphere she cultivated.

In addition to her devotion to family, Granny held a deep commitment to her faith and community. She served as Secretary of the Elkdale Garden Club, where her passion for gardening blossomed. She was also an ardent member of the former Woodland Heights Presbyterian Church, where she shared her gifts as a Sunday School teacher and contributed her skills as the church’s treasurer and historian. Through her service in these roles, she touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As her life journey unfolded, she developed a zest for travel with her late husband, Roland, exploring new horizons from the beaches of Florida to the mountains of Tennessee and Georgia and even Hawaii. These adventures enriched her spirit, filling her heart with stories and experiences that she would love to share with her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John C. Benson and later husband, Roland E. Courtney, Jr.; father, Hans Albert Pfeiffer; mother, Marion Elizabeth Pfeiffer; step-son, Curtis Owen (Lynn) Benson and sister, Dorothy P. Green.

She is survived by her children, John A. (Donna) Benson, Kenneth J. Benson and Wanda (David) Moody; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Hans A. "Sonny" (Miriam) Pfeiffer and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma with Dr. David Hodo officiating. Interment will follow at Live Oak Cemetery. Visitation will begin at the funeral home in Selma, beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.