Marjorie Chewning Obituary Marjorie "Marje" Darlene Chewning of Keokuk, IA, died March 1, 2017, at 4:45 a.m. at the Montrose Health Center, surrounded by her family. Marje was born on June 14, 1929, in Keokuk, IA, a daughter of Grand Washburn and Rosie May Hardin Washburn. She married Charles W. Chewning on September 18, 1948, at the St. Michael's Rectory in Kahoka, MO. They moved to Keokuk, and resided there throughout their married life. This coming September would have marked 69 years of their marriage. In a special tradition, they celebrated every Christmas during their marriage in their own home. Survivors include her husband, Charles, of Montrose Health Center; her daughter, Janice L. Justice and her husband Rick, of Kahoka, MO; her grandson, Jeremiah R. Justice and his wife Jessica of Kahoka, MO; and great-granddaughter Hali Justice; as well as several nieces and nephews, cousins, and many close friends. A staunch advocate of children, Marje was heavily involved in many different programs and groups working on education, health, community service, and literacy. Marje and Charles served as foster parents for many years to over 40 children. They were once awarded the title of "Foster Parents of the Year" by the State of Iowa. She was a member of the Friendly Neighbors FCE Club of Clark County, MO for over forty years. She was a member of the All Saints Church in Keokuk, IA. Marje was a founding member of the Lee County Iowa Genealogical Society. She compiled extensive research on several families over the years. An avid reader, Marje greatly enjoyed using the Keokuk and Hamilton public libraries, and enjoyed volunteering there when she was able. Marje had a vast collection of books and cookbooks. In recent years, she rekindled her interest in music and art. She had also become a keen fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. A talented homemaker, she was well-known for her culinary skills. In her group of friends and family, she was commonly called on to provide her information and knowledge on cooking and homemaking skills and techniques. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, and decorating her home. Marje was a loving mother, wife, and grandmother to her family. She truly enjoyed visiting with company in her home, and was a gracious entertainer. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Joseph and Marvin; and two sisters, Iva Marie and Betty. Family and friends were always the biggest blessing to Marje. She held them close to her heart, as they were truly the light of her life. Funeral celebration of her life will be at 10 a.m. Monday at DeJong-Greaves Celebration of Life Centers , 917 Blondeau St., Keokuk, with the Rev. Marty Goetz officiating. Burial will follow in Keokuk National Cemetery. Visitation will be after 3 p.m. Sunday, with family meeting friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Keokuk Public Library. Visitation DeJong-Greaves Celebration of Life Center/Blondeau 917 Blondeau Street Keokuk, Iowa 52632 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Service DeJong-Greaves Celebration of Life Center/Blondeau 917 Blondeau Street Keokuk, Iowa 52632 10:00 AM