Marion Di Valerio Herndon: April 6, 1936 - August 2, 2025​
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marion Di Valerio Herndon on August 2nd, 2025 at the age of 86 following a heroic battle with cancer. She was an amazing person who had endless energy and optimism. Marion faced adversity with strength fueled by love, and she enriched the lives of everyone she met.​
Marion was born in Syracuse, NY, and her first years were spent on a small farm in Coeymans, NY. The family moved to Philadelphia and then Norristown, PA where Marion graduated from Norristown High School in 1954. Marriage, three kids, and an ambitious husband eager to be a part of the space program brought the family to Houston in 1967. Follow the loss of husband Panfillo in 1969, Marion showed determination and resilience, studying at Lamar University, and then UH Clear Lake, where she received both undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing in special education. Marion received her teacher certification in Elementary Education and Learning Disabilities in May 1974. "Mrs. D" worked at schools in both La Porte and Clear Lake City where she showed a tremendous concern and love the for the disadvantaged and disabled. Marion developed a program to help high functioning students learn independent living skills in a mock apartment on campus. ​
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Marion's retirement years were filled with activities, especially tennis, sailing, and travel in companionship with husband Ed Herndon. They were active in the local Texas Mariner Cruising Association, where Marion served as Commodore in 1998. Marion and Ed sailed, raced, and cruised extensively along the Texas Coast and beyond, even completing the renowned Great Loop Adventure in 2000; a 6000-mile circumnavigation of the Eastern US Seaboard. Marion also was active as a board member for the annual Yachty Gras Festival, as well as cohosting a lively and popular 4th of July Party at their home in Clear Lake for several years. They have also sailed in Norway, The Bahamas, Virgin Islands, and Greece, as well as an old school barge trip in the canals of Southern France.​
Marion's later years saw her generously devoting time to the group Sailing Angels, which offers sailing trips to children with special needs and military veterans and their families.
Marion left behind three children, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She was a beacon of light who would shine forever in the hearts of her family and friends.​
A celebration of life took place September 13th at 11am at Unity Bay Area Houston, 1911 HW3 South, League City. Followed by a reception and boat parade.​
In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in her memory to one of her favorite charitable causes:
Sailing Angels - Sailngangels.org
League City Animal Care Adoption Center https://www.leaguecitytx.gov/3913/Donate
Yachty Gras Foundation - yachtygras.com