Marguerite Santich

Marguerite Santich, 93, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2017, in Knoxville, Tenn. Olivia Marguerite was born in Piedmont, Ala., the youngest of seven children. She attended Jacksonville State University where she met Tom who was stationed nearby at Fort McClellan. Marguerite and Tom were happily married for 70 years, most of those years spent in their favorite city, Chattanooga. After graduating from college, Marguerite began her long and enjoyable teaching career. She had a passion for both math and teaching and she taught math and science for more than 40 years. She was an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional honor society of key women educators, for many years. Marguerite was involved in United Methodist Women for more than 60 years and cherished her UMW Circle members at Brainerd United Methodist Church. She was very active at Brainerd UMC serving on many committees, as Sunday School superintendent and volunteering in the office. She and Tom were also long-standing members of the Asbury Sunday School class. Marguerite was an inspiring role model. She was a woman who excelled at math and science long before it was accepted. She was an avid bridge player and played regularly with friends. She shared her love of cards and games with her children and grandchildren and spent many summers and holidays enjoying games and good times with her family. Marguerite is survived by her children, Carol Mellgren (Dave) and Stan Santich (Gayle); grandchildren, Kristin Gagnier (Ryan), Ashley Greer (Travis), Austin Santich, Lainey Briggs (Brad), Ryan Mellgren, Ashley Mellgren, Michael Mellgren; great-grandchildren, Lila Gagnier, Juliette Gagnier, Koda Mellgren, Bennett Greer, Sophie Gagnier and Carter Briggs. Marguerite was preceded in death by Tom, her beloved husband of 70 years, who died just two months ago. A funeral service will be held on April 22, at 11 a.m. with receiving of friends at 10 a.m. at Brainerd United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Holston Home for Children's 404 Holston Drive, Greenville, Tenn., 37743. Click Funeral Home and Cremations, 9020 Middlebrook Pike, is serving the Santich family, www.clickfh.com.