Marjory Eileen (Swanson) Handy died Tuesday morning, March 4, 2008, in Coupeville, Whidbey Island.

She was born on August 13, 1918, in Walla Walla, the only child of Eileen and Colonel Sapp.

Marjory was a graduate of the University of Washington with a B.A. in drama, literature, and education, and a M.A. in Blind Studies with a Braille focus. After being an actress, puppeteer and restaurateur, Marjory spent years as a special education teacher for blind children in the Seattle School District.

Marjory was preceded in death by her first husband, Lawrence J. Swanson, her second husband, Robert J. Handy, and her first child, Sidney Swanson, who died in early childhood.

Marjory is survived by two sons, Stephen (Sandra) Swanson of Coupeville, and Stan (Lynn) Swanson of Clinton. She is also survived by three grandsons, Paul Swanson, Matthew (Erika) Swanson, and Erik Swanson, her niece Susan Berg, nephew David Rogers and their families, and the Handy family stepchildren and grandchildren.

Marjory and Larry bought their beloved property on South Whidbey in 1949 and she enjoyed many happy years in retirement there. Her interests included world travel, art, crafts, collecting, and music.

Marjory’s colorful personality and zest for life will not be forgotten.

Please join her family on Whidbey Island, March 16, at 3 p.m. at the Clinton Progressive Hall, 6411 Central Ave., Clinton, for an informal celebration of her long life.