Marjorie A Van Ness

Marjorie Adora (Jackson) Van Ness, age 94, was born on September 17, 1928, and passed away peacefully at her home on July 20, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Marge was born in Bedminster, NJ, to the late Harry and Marjorie Jackson. She lived for many years in the Hobbstown section of Bridgewater before moving to Somerville in 1973.

She married the late John Van Ness, Sr., in 1948 and they celebrated over 50 years of marriage.

Marge was a member of St. Paul’s Baptist church in Somerville, NJ. She loved cooking and feeding her family and friends. Her secret ingredient was love and she always made sure there was enough for all. Her sense of humor was contagious and has been passed down through generations. She also enjoyed playing bingo, the weekly family poker games, watching her stories and singing with her sons.

She worked as a housekeeper for many years in the Somerville area, but her life was devoted to raising her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, for which we are eternally grateful. She was Nan to everyone who knew her.

In addition to her late husband and parents, Marge was predeceased by two sons, Vincent and John Van Ness, Jr.; seven sisters, Marie, Bessie, Ada, Vinie, Sylvia, Shirley and Eleanor; three brothers, Sam, Richard and Robert; and long-time family friend Curtis Bell.

Marge is survived by her children: Thelma Harris (Will), Sis Van Ness, Rodney Van Ness (Shelly), Claire Brown, Nina Van Ness, Ernest Van Ness (Melissa), Lester Van Ness (Denise), Penelope Van Ness (Rich), Michael Van Ness (Rosie) and Stacey MacIlroy.

She is also survived by 36 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren, her brother, Mark Short, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

She will be dearly missed by all.

Submitted with Love

~The Family~

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