Marlene McGruder

Marlene Joyce McGruder, age 60,  passed away on February 17, 2025 from congestive heart failure.

Born on November 26, 1964, in Phillip, South Dakota, Marlene lived a life of integrity, deep empathy, and boundless generosity. She was best known as a beacon of support to her family. Without hesitation, she offered compassionate help through acts of service.

Marlene unmeasurably loved her husband – David, and their son- Shiloh. Her greatest joy came from going the extra mile for anything they ever needed and spending time with her grandson, Ashton.

Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, Ethel (Schilling) and Raymond Sowards, and her brothers, Lenny, Butch, and Wayne.

A viewing to honor Marlene’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 26, at the Family Worship Center in Watertown from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and prior to the start of the service on Thursday. 

The celebration of life service will be on Thursday, February 27, at 10 a.m. at the New Life Assembly Church in Pierre. A luncheon will immediately follow.

Marlene’s committal service will happen Friday, February 28, at 2:30 p.m. at the Black Hills Veteran’s Cemetery in Sturgis.

In lieu of flowers, please perform a random act of kindness in her honor.

Marlene will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown and Hayti.  

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