Marie Sears McCloskey

Marie S. McCloskey, 86, a Carlsbad native, died peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, August 31, 2013. Marie and her husband Reid celebrated 68 years of marriage August 4, 2013. They met at a U.S.O. dance during World War II while Reid was training as a bombardier at the Carlsbad Army Air Base. Together, they raised four children: David, Linda, Scott (deceased), and Steve. David and his wife, Jane reside in Carlsbad, NM; Linda and her husband, Roger live in Albuquerque, NM; Steve and his wife, Cathy reside in La Luz, NM. There are six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Mrs. McCloskey's parents were Burl and Mildred Sears and she had one brother, James (deceased). Marie's work included seven years as the Executive Director of the Red Cross during the Vietnam War era. She was a field underwriter for the Mutual of New York Life Insurance Company. In 1984, she was the first woman elected president of the state's life underwriter's association. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and enjoyed doing a variety of service and leadership positions. A tireless volunteer, she became the first woman to be elected to the Board of Directors for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. She led Boy Scouts and Campfire groups and was on the Eddy County Fair Board. In 1999, Reid and Marie were awarded the A.J. Crawford Award For Community Service by the Carlsbad Foundation. During retirement years they have been especially active volunteers at the Landsun Homes Retirement Center. Marie was a selfless and compassionate person who made others around her feel loved and cherished. She will be missed by many friends and family. There will be no visitation. Interment is scheduled for 9:00 AM, Saturday, September 7, 2013 at Sunset Gardens. A Memorial Service is to be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, September 7, 2013 at First United Methodist Church, 207 N. Halagueno, with Rev. Dan Boyd officiating. As an alternative to flowers, please consider a donation to the Landsun Homes Caring Hands Fund, 2002 Westridge Road, Carlsbad, NM 88220. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.