3 min read

Marion (Ranger) Durrell

FARMINGTON – Marion Ranger Durrell, 91, of Farmington, passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Marion’s life was defined by her boundless generosity, warmth, and the way she welcomed everyone into her circle as family.

Born on Nov. 11, 1933, in Wilton, Marion was the daughter of Claris and Rose Ranger. She grew up in Wilton and graduated from Wilton Academy in 1953. Later that same year, on Nov. 8, she married the love of her life, Kenneth “Spider” Durrell. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared 64 years making memories.

Marion worked for 35 years at the UMF Dining Center, where she formed enduring friendships, including with her best friend, Rosie DeRocco. She also ran a daycare for several years, nurturing children who still remember her as a “second mom.” Deeply committed to her community, Marion was an active member of the Farmington American Legion Auxiliary, where she served as an officer and often volunteered her time, from supporting the Special Olympics and working at the Farmington Fair, to registering voters at the Community Center. She also volunteered as a cheering coach for the Little League Packers for several years. Each fall, she became what she fondly called a “hunter’s widow,” while Spider spent November on the mountain.

Marion’s greatest joy was her family. She never missed her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s activities, always cheering loudly and proudly. She was also an enthusiastic fan of both the Red Sox and the Patriots, never wavering in her loyalty.

Her kindness, her ability to love without prejudice, and her deep care for others made her a constant source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her. They shared countless happy summers camping, especially at their favorite place, Happy Horseshoe. Those adventures with friends and family became treasured traditions that she talked about throughout her life.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Kenneth “Spider” Durrell; her sisters Louise Sawyer, Lorraine (and husband Bill) Viers, Madeline Ranger, and Ruby (and husband John) Allen, her brother, Robert Ranger; two nieces and a nephew; and her parents, Claris and Rose Ranger.

Marion is survived by her children, Deborah (Brent) Stanley of Wilton, Stewart (Kathy) Durrell of Industry, Denise (Norman) Noyes of Hampden, Steven (Karen) Durrell of Nova Scotia, and Donna (Jerry) Williams of New Sharon; along with her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren Tanya (Steve) Nalesnik (Debbie, Kenny and Jonny); Tracy Chandler; Adam (Kirsten) Pomeroy (Kelsey and Kayden); Blake (Jodie Wilson) Durrell; Ben (Natasha) Durrell (Victor and Louis); Jenna (Mike Smiley) Williams (Laiken); Alyssa (Ryan) MacNeil (Rory); Jacob-“JT” (Kilee) Williams; and Dylan (Logan Booker) Noyes, who were all her pride and joy.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Wiles Remembrance Center in Farmington.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Edgewood Rehabilitation and Assisted Living, as well as the nurses and CNAs from Andwell Health Partners, for their compassion and care in Marion’s final weeks.

Marion will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering devotion to family, and her extraordinary heart that touched so many lives.

Anyone wishing to honor her life may donate to the Farmington Legion Auxiliary for their Kitchen Fund.

Please send to

American Legion Auxiliary

Kitchen Fund

c/o Rita Smith

131 Temple Rd.

Temple, ME 04984

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