Marion S. Vandiver was born on August 24, 1943, in Greensboro, Georgia, He passed away
peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 17, surrounded by his loving family. His family,
home and farm were his greatest joys- where he poured his heart, strength, and life’s work.
Marion dedicated decades of his life to dairying, a calling he shared faithfully with his wife,
Faye. Together, they worked tirelessly on their dairy farm on Carter-Dearman Road, milking
cows twice a day, every day, for 37 years. Their commitment, work ethic, and stewardship
of the land earned them recognition as Putnam County’s Dairy Family of the Year in 1980.
Marion was a respected and familiar presence in Eatonton’s agricultural community,
known for his leadership, integrity, and deep connection to the land.
After retiring from dairying, Marion never retired from farming. He continued to nurture his
land through gardening, raising beef cattle, and maintaining an immaculate yard—often
walking laps around his property, a testament to both his discipline and love for the farm. It
was not just where he worked; it was where he felt most at peace.
Above all else, Marion cherished his family. He took special pride in spending time with his
grandchildren and great-grandchildren, teaching them to appreciate the simple pleasures
of life—being outdoors, working hard, reading real newspapers and cheering on the Atlanta
Braves.
Marion is survived by his beloved wife, Faye Vandiver; his children, Doug Holder (Tracy),
Dave Holder, Dana Vandiver Walker (William), and Todd Vandiver; his grandchildren Katie,
Kimberly, Eli, Lindsey, Drew, John David, Sam, Macy, Chloe, Anna and Todd Jr. and
numerous great grandchildren; his sister, Linda Hutto (Ronnie Daniel); and his brothers,
Thomas Vandiver Sr. (Geraldine), Louie L. Vandiver, Jerry S. Vandiver (Connie), and Darrell
Vandiver (Kay).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hoyt S. Vandiver and Mary Lois Bryant Vandiver;
his sisters, Carolyn Louise Vandiver Batson, Catherine Melson, Jeannette Veale, and Betty
Jo Patterson; and his brothers, Hoyt “June” Vandiver Jr. and William Jarrell “Bodie” Vandiver.
Marion’s legacy is one of hard work, devotion to family, respect for the land, and a life well
lived. His quiet lessons, steady presence, and unwavering devotion will live on through generations.
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