Marci Frederick Obituary (1960 - 2024)

If Marci Frederick was anything, she was a living supernova, vibrant and bright-burning. Born in rural Illinois, Marci's academic career would take her far beyond the borders of her hometown of Rockford. While serving as the Director of Libraries at Trinity Christian College, King's University College, the Institute for Christian Studies, annd most recently Eastern Mennonite University, Marci was beloved by staff and students alike. She fought hard for the preservation of libraries, and for the rights of her co-workers, pushing back against capitalist cost-cuts and the devaluation of both knowledge and labor. As well as her Bachelor's of History, Marci had three Master's degrees, one in Philosophy of History, a Master's of Library Science, and a Master's of American History. At the time of her death, she was working toward the completion of a Master's of Divinity. Alongside her academic career, Marci was a song leader and an itinerant preacher (though she disliked the term) who touched many hearts throughout the course of her journey in the church, both in the Valley and beyond. With her sharp wit, crisp delivery, and unique vision of the Bible, she was described by many as the best preacher they had ever had the pleasure to hear, and as very pastoral, despite not being a pastor. Marci married the love of her life, Paul, in March of 1998. She kept her maiden name. Together, they lived in Toronto, Edmonton, Chicago, and Harrisonburg, along with their child Blue, also known as Jocelyn. She had a deep love for baseball, and for the unique and strange, for Dooyeweerd to Japanese jazz. She is survived by her spouse and child, and a brother who lives in Florida. The family will receive friends Monday, September 16, 2024, from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. at McMullen Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held at Martin Chapel, Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., a time of fellowship and storytelling will follow from 7 p.m.-8 p.m.