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Marion Catherine Stearns, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed
away peacefully on September 21, 2026 at the age of 95. She leaves behind a lifetime of
memories and a family who loved her immensely. Born in Rotterdam, NY on February 23, 1931,
she was the daughter of the late Ridgeford and Bertha (Talbot) Zautner. Growing up her parents
instilled in her the importance of honesty, compassion, caring for others, and the love of family, a
foundation she passed down to her children.
Marion loved with her whole heart. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her
children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She made ordinary days feel special and found
true happiness in the simple moments. Her children and grandchildren will always cherish the
time they spent together whether they were shopping, playing bingo, spending time on the beach
or at the Boardwalk in Wildwood, NJ, watching the NY Yankees, or just being together and
talking. She had the gift of gab, was a great listener, and left everyone she met feeling seen,
heard, and valued.
Marion had a unique style that was entirely her own and taught her family what real strength
looks like, meeting whatever life brought her way with courage and a quiet resilience. She gave
love generously and received it deeply, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and a
lifetime of cherished moments. She was loved not only by her family but also by the many
wonderful friends whose lives she touched throughout the years.
Marion was predeceased by her husband Bill Stearns and daughter Colleen Purdy. She is
survived by her children Christine Stomski, Jay (Terri) Stearns, and Tim (Bill) Stearns. She was
the cherished grandmother of Daina (Greg) Sisk, Rick (Kaitlin) Rossi, Justin Stearns, Casey
(Shannon) Stearns, and Lindsey Kelly and great-grandmother of Ricky, Ethan, James, Olivia,
Tristan, Piper, Phoenix, and Rosie.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Saaket Gupta and his team for their
kindness and care over the years.
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Marion's life on Wednesday, September 30,
2026, with calling hours from 11am-12pm followed by a Celebration of Life at New Comer
Cremations & Funerals, 343 Karner Road, Colonie, NY 12205. The service will be followed by
an inurnment at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road,
Schuylerville, NY 12871.
To share a memory of Marion or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.
New Comer Cremations & Funerals, Colonie
New Comer Cremations & Funerals, Colonie
Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery
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