Marian Lagretta Townsend , 91, departed this life peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Barbara L. Lewis; her son, Robert L. Townsend II; her grandson, Gerald D. Lewis Jr. (Jerry); her granddaughters, Jamelle Maxwell (Gary Maxwell) and Desireé A. Lewis (Desi); her great‑grandchildren, Dylan C. Lewis and Celeste Maxwell, as well as her great-grand animals; Bruce and Charlie.

Marian was preceded in death by her husband (Bobby), and her daughter, Anita E.T. Walker.

Born in Virginia, Marian spent most of her childhood and teenage years in West Philadelphia alongside her family. After marrying, she returned to Virginia, where she made her lifelong home.

Marian worked for many years as a warehouse employee at G&H Manufacturing and McLane Mid‑Atlantic before becoming a full‑time foster parent and opening her own daycare, Townsend's Daycare. It was during these years that she became affectionately known as "Mema"—a name spoken with love by the children she cared for, their parents, and the foster children she welcomed into her home.

"Mema" helped raise what felt like half of Fredericksburg. She was known for her deep love of children and even more for her unmistakable no‑nonsense attitude. There will never be another "Mema" like her. Her impact is woven into the lives of countless families, and her absence will be felt deeply by her family and all who knew her.

A viewing and visitation will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The interment will be held at Rolling Green Memorial Park in Pennsylvania.