Marea Christmas

Marea Christmas, known to many as Marea W. Deen or simply Marea, a beacon of resilience, loving kindness, and dedicated service, left this world on February 22, 2024. Born on October 28, 1931, in Lake City, Florida, Marea's life was a testament to the strength of her character and the depth of her compassion. A registered nurse, she dedicated her professional life to the medical field, retiring from Tacachale. Her commitment extended beyond her career to her active participation in her local Methodist Church, where her voice graced the choir and she served tirelessly as Treasurer. Helen Keller once said, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." This sentiment encapsulates Marea's spirit, as she was consistently a pillar of support within her community.

Marea was a woman of many passions. A lover of music, sports, books, shopping, and history, she had a zest for life that was infectious. She had a special fondness for planting flowers and trees in her yard, a testament to her nurturing nature. Her dedication to the Florida Gators was unparalleled, reflecting her unwavering support and loyalty. As a volunteer with the AGH Auxiliary Group, known as the Pink Ladies, and the After School Program through her Methodist Church, Marea's dedication to service was apparent. Above all, however, her love for her family was profound and unwavering.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and service through her children Janice Elaine Deen, Edgar Levi Deen (Debbie), and Melinda Marea Bass (Eddie); her grandchildren Timothy Levi Deen (Amanda) and Joseph Turner Deen (Lexi); her great-granddaughter Lainey Wylder Deen, and many other loved ones through her second marriage. Marea was preceded in death by her beloved husband Edgar Deen and second husband James Christmas, her parents Lester Wilson and Lena McGuirk Derry (Victor), and her sisters Betty Wallace (William), Clara Anello (George), and Carolyn Crawford (Jack).

The services to celebrate Marea's life will be held on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, 311 S. Main Street, Gainesville, Florida. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM EST, followed by the memorial service at 1:45 PM EST. The interment will take place at Forest Meadows Cemetery-East, 3700 Southeast Hawthorne Road, Gainesville, Florida, at 3:00 PM EST.

In the words of Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Marea’s memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched. We invite you to share your memories of Marea, and upload photos to her memorial page, to forever celebrate her life and the love she shared.