Obituary of Marie L. Adair

Marie L. Adair (née Marino), 81, passed away peacefully, in her home, on April 3, 2026, in Marlton, New Jersey. Born on August 25, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Marie lived a life dedicated to education, leadership, and the joy of family and friends. Marie pursued her passion for education with distinction, earning both a Master of Arts in Language Arts/Literacy and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Glassboro College in New Jersey. Her career was marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. As the former assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the Vineland School District-a district serving over 10,000 students across 22 schools-Marie played a pivotal role in shaping educational practices that impacted countless lives. Her influence extended far beyond her local community. Marie led an organization of diverse educators committed to promoting excellence throughout New Jersey. Under her leadership, New Jersey ASCD achieved award-winning status, including the prestigious ASCD Affiliate Overall Excellence Award. She also served on the ASCD Board of Directors and held numerous leadership roles within the organization, including co-chairing ASCD Position Development and chairing a twelve-member Affiliate Study Task Force, Marie was a major donor and was very involved in the George Street Playhouse, Performing Arts Theater, in New Brunswick, New Jersey for the last 7 years. Throughout her illustrious career, Marie was recognized with numerous accolades that celebrated her dedication and impact. Among these were the NJASCD Ernest Boyer Outstanding Educator Awards (2000 & 2020), the Inspirational Leadership Award from the NJASCD Executive Board, the Outstanding Administrator/Supervisor Award from Vineland Administrators, and the Cumberland County NJ Administrator of the Year Award. Additional honors included awards for exemplary service from both the Vineland Board of Education and Southern Region of NJASCD, as well as recognition from Alpha Delta Kappa as an Outstanding Educator. Beyond her professional achievements, Marie cherished time spent with her family and friends. She was a loving sister to Paula Magee (née Marino) and a devoted aunt to her nephews Michael Magee (Dawn) of Upper Deerfield Township, Jeffrey Magee of Pennsylvania and Christy Magee of Pennsylvania. She also took great pride in her great-niece Taylor Henry (Nick) and five great-nephews: Michael Jr., Sammy (Deanna), Alec, Hunter, and Tristan Magee. Her warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Adair; and her parents, Paul and Rose (nee Teti) Marino. An avid traveler with a love for art galleries and libraries, Marie explored Europe, Canada, and the United States throughout her life. These experiences enriched her perspective and deepened her appreciation for culture and history. Marie's legacy is one of compassion, dedication to education, and love for those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. A private graveside service and burial will be held at Overlook Cemetery in Bridgeton. Donations in memory of Marie may be made to: The Charity of One's Choice. ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com