Margaret W. Varner (Mardie)

Margaret W. Varner (Mardie) passed away on July 1, 2026, at the age of 89. Mardie was born in Atlanta GA and was a resident of Baton Rouge for 26 years, living in Huntsville, Alabama previously. She was a retired bookkeeper from various companies. In addition, she was a Friend of Bill for over 50 years. Her last few years were less active than she would have liked due to health considerations. Her favorite passions were watching Alabama football and college sports.

Visitation will be at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Prairieville on Wednesday, July 8 from 9:30 until the Eulogy at 10:45 am. The funeral mass will be at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow at the church. Burial will be in Huntsville at a later date.

Mardie is survived by three children: Vance Varner (Sandy) of Gonzales, Mike Esslinger (Kathy) of Tuscaloosa, and Janet E. Moore (Allen) of Huntsville. She is also survived by four grandchildren: Holly M. Miskowiec, Tanna V. Ray, David Moore, and Adam Varner, as well as six great-grandchildren. Mardie was preceded in death by her parents, Henry T. and Icie G. Woodward, by her husbands (Russell W. Varner and O.M. Esslinger, Jr.), by her siblings (Catherine W. Kitchens, Ernest Woodward, and Rev. Travis Woodward) and by an infant daughter (Margaret).

Throughout the years, Mardie enjoyed being in the middle of things, new cars, and her dogs. She was always willing to provide her experiences, and she will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, please provide memorial donations to “Hospice in His Care” in Baton Rouge. Special thanks to these folks, and to Glenncrest / Sunrise Assisted Living for all the care during her last few years.

A service to celebrate Mardie's life will be announced at a future date.