Bettie Jo (BJ) Marchi's Obituary
Bettie Jo (BJ) Marchi (Coverstone), 75, of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 4, 1950, in Front Royal, BJ was the daughter of the late Frances and James Coverstone.
BJ’s life was defined by her passion for education and her deep love for her family. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Longwood College and went on to further her studies, earning a Master of Arts in Reading from Virginia Tech. BJ became a certified Reading Specialist, dedicating much of her life to helping students develop the joy and skill of reading. She used her many talents as an educator to change lives in the classrooms of Sterling Elementary School as a 1st and 3rd grade teacher. After spending several valued years at home with her daughters, she joined the staff at St. Joseph’s Catholic School where she continued her service as a Resource teacher. She also was the Director of Preschool CCD, a program she was the founder of.
BJ 's career was one of service, always putting others first and striving to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Her impact as an educator extended far beyond the classroom, touching countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and generosity.
BJ is not only known as a teacher, but as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her marriage to David Marchi withstood the test of time, lasting more than 50 years. We would all be so lucky to have the love they shared. With David, she raised 2 daughters, Angela and Melissa whom she loved dearly. She displayed an endless amount of patience and love for her girls, especially during their teenage years. If medals could be given in heaven, she would have earned one. Her relationship with her daughters was unique and special, with a bond between BJ and Melissa that will forever be cherished. BJ also loved her granddaughter, Jade, more than words could describe. Fond memories of baking cookies, making oatmeal with milk and honey in the morning, and playing the sock monkey game are just a few of the treasured moments she shared with her “Grammy.”
BJ is survived by her devoted husband, David Marchi; her two daughters, Melissa Marchi and Angela Cradlin (Chris); her beloved granddaughter, Jade; and three granddogs, Addison, Tonks, and Loki, who brought her great joy. She is also survived by her brother, J.M. Coverstone and his wife Sharon, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who also loved her. BJ’s warmth, compassion, and love for her family will forever be cherished by all who knew her.
Visitation in honor of BJ will be held at Loudoun Funeral Chapel on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A live-streamed Catholic Funeral Mass will be held to celebrate BJ’s life at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church (46639 Algonkian Pkwy, Sterling VA, 20165) on Saturday March 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM, followed by a reception with light refreshments at the church. Burial will be Monday, March 24, 2025 in Front Royal, VA at Prospect Hill Cemetery (200 West Prospect Street Front Royal, Virginia) at 12:00 PM. Reception to follow at Front Royal United Methodist Church (1 W Main St, Front Royal, VA 22630).
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Alzheimers Association. Link can be found here.
To honor BJ’s life and her dedication to teaching, a one-time memorial scholarship has been created in her name to be presented to a deserving Warren County High School Student who plans to enter into the field of Elementary Education. Memorial scholarship donations can be mailed to Bill King, 4066 Ambleside Dr. Fort Mill, SC 29707.
Please share online condolences to the family at http://www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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