Marjorie Ellen Christian Bay, 83, passed away peacefully at home with her beloved husband by her side on June 24, 2026.

Marjorie was born on October 11, 1942, to Grace Garrett and Tracy Christian in Martinez, California. She and her sister, Nancy, were only three years apart and shared a close bond that remained strong throughout their lives. Marjorie had an adventurous childhood, moving frequently and experiencing life in many different places, including Port Chicago, California; Ketchikan, Alaska; and Walla Walla, Washington.

Marjorie was the proud mother of three children-Julie, Scott, and Casey-and was also blessed with a bonus daughter, Lori. In the 1980s, she met the love of her life, Kirk Bay. Together they built a beautiful marriage that lasted nearly 40 years, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Around 1975, Marjorie made Thompson Falls her home, where she spent the next 51 years building lifelong friendships and becoming a cherished member of the community. Throughout her life, she held many occupations, including respiratory therapist, bus driver, waitress, and, ultimately, bartender-a role that perfectly suited her outgoing personality and gift for connecting with people.

Marjorie loved spending time outdoors, especially hiking and cross-country skiing, but one of her greatest joys was bowling, where she truly felt at home among friends.

Marjorie had a personality that could light up any room. Her infectious laugh, kind heart, and genuine warmth will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved her. She was truly one of a kind. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, and she made it a priority to ensure each of them always felt loved, valued, and special.

She also had an enormous love for animals. Whether they were family pets, "grand-pets," or strays in need of kindness, animals always seemed to find their way to Marjorie. She spent many years volunteering at the local animal shelter, TRACS, where she shared her compassion with countless animals in need.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents, Grace Garrett and Tracy Christian; her sister, Nancy Colchico; her daughter, Julie Anderson (Nichols); and her granddaughter, Saira Nichols.

She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Kirk Bay; her children, Scott (Liz) Anderson, Casey (Joelle) Mayfield, and Lori (Dan) Poff; her grandchildren, Christine (Blaine) Leischner, Chris Anderson, Sean Anderson, Shea Anderson, Jeff Poff, Jared Poff, Madison Mayfield, and Cassie VanCleef; her great-grandchildren, Aiden Rosales, Gaige Leischner, Araia Mayfield, Josh Mayfield, Elle Mayfield, Zayden, and Zaleigh; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Power Park in Thompson Falls. Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate the beautiful life of a truly beautiful soul.

You are missed more than words can express. We love you forever, Gma.