Obituary of Margaret Frances Marston

Margaret “Fran” Marston, 99, passed away June 12, 2021 at G&E Assisted Living Facility in Rockledge, Florida.  She was born on November 17, 1921 in Abilene, Texas to Jack and Ruby Gilliland.

Fran worked as a secretary for over 20 years in the Falls Church City Public School System.  She was an avid gardener, sailor and bridge player.  Fran was also a superb cook and consummate hostess.

Fran is survived by her son, Lance C. Newby, (Ret.) Major USMC of San Jose, Costa Rica, daughter-in-law, Carrie Newby of Washington, DC.  Granddaughters, Michelle Koontz of Wasilla, AK, Caroline Hoff of Las Vegas, NV, Laura Newby of Austin, TX and April Newby of Burnsville, MN; Grandson Andrew Newby of Atlanta, GA; Great Grandsons, Aidan (12), Mason (10), Rylan (10) and Logan (9) Koontz of Wasilla, AK and Evan (2) and Cole (3 mos) Newby of Atlanta, GA; Nieces Stephanie Gilliland, of Portland, OR and Suzanne Gilliland Fitzgerald of Grant Pass, OR.

Fran was preceded in death by her husbands Joseph Newby (Ret.) Lt Col. USAF and Coburn Marston, (Ret.) Lt Col. USMC; her son Laurus Newby; and brothers George “Cotton” Gilliland, (Ret.) Col., USMC and Jack Gilliland, Jr.

Fran will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.