Voncille “Marie” Ethridge

Marie Ethridge, 91, passed away peacefully at Marcy Place Assisted Living, where she was surrounded by care, kindness, and love in her final days from family & staff.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until 6:30 pm, Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.  Graveside services will be held at 10:30 am, Friday, August 1, 2025 at Trinity Memorial Park Peace Chapel.

Marie was born on February 20, 1934 to Burnis and Dorothy Petty in Big Spring, Texas.

Marie spent over 30 years working for the Coahoma Independent School District, where she devoted most of her career to teaching high school Vocational Office Education (VOE). A gifted educator and mentor, she guided countless students toward success in business and office careers, taking many of them to state and national competitions. She also proudly served as the cheerleading sponsor for many years, encouraging school spirit and leadership in her students.

Her passion for education extended beyond the classroom. Marie served on the Howard College Board of Trustees, continuing her commitment to advancing learning and opportunity in her community. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and remained a proud Red Raider fan throughout her life.

Marie married the love of her life, Rob Ethridge, and together they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family. Marie was a devoted mother to their daughter Robin. After his passing, Marie was blessed to share a meaningful and supportive companionship with her dear friend, Martin Fryar. Their friendship brought joy, laughter, and comfort in her later years — a bond that enriched her life deeply.

She was a long-time resident of Coahoma, living there for over 50 years before moving to Colorado City in 2013. Marie loved camping trips across Texas and especially cherished her visits to Ruidoso, New Mexico. A true sports fan, she enjoyed cheering on her favorite teams — but none compared to her greatest pride and joy: her grandson, Ryland. She never missed a game, stock show or moment to show him how much she loved him and how much he meant to her. Her bond with Ryland was extraordinary – filled with love, laughter and unwavering support. Her presence at his activities was a constant, and her pride in him was immeasurable.

Elegant and graceful, Marie will also be remembered for her impeccable style — always dressed just right, with perfect hair and a matching purse to complete every look. Her kindness, strength, and class touched all who knew her, and her legacy of service, love, and community will live on for generations to come.

Proceeded in death by her husband of 47 years Rob Ethridge, her parents Burnis (BJ) and Dorothy Petty, Martin Fryar, brother-in-law Joe Ethridge and nephew Mark Ethridge and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Surviving family members daughter and son-in-law John Senter and Robin and their son Ryland of Colorado City, Velma Ethridge sister-in-law of Kermit also niece Joni Pearson of Kermit, Sid and Ann Sullenger of Mertzon, Todd and Joan Ethridge of Coleman and numerous other nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers a contribution to the Heritage Museum in Big Spring or the Mitchell County Livestock Association in Colorado City, Box 657, Colorado City, TX 79512.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory.  Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com

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