Marjorie Lucille Carlisle Smeltzer, 97, died peacefully in Brookline, Massachusetts, on December 8, 2025.

Born on September 23, 1928, to Eleanor (Swartz) and Milford Carlisle, Marjorie grew up in Mooresville, Indiana, as the oldest of four siblings: George, Janet, and Mary Lou. A gifted student from an early age, she graduated as valedictorian of her high school class before earning her degree in English from Purdue University. While at Purdue, she met her future husband, Dean Smeltzer, a mechanical engineering major. They married on May 23, 1953, beginning 66 devoted years together.

Marjorie and Dean had three children—Eric, Deanne, and Nancy—and in 1962 made their home in Walpole, Massachusetts. The family spent their summer in Brewster, and Marjorie and Dean later moved permanently to Brewster, enjoying life on Cape Cod year-round.

A lifelong learner, Marjorie was an avid reader and lover of books. Known by many as "the best reader I have ever known," she filled her home with books and often finished books in a single day—always ready for the next novel.

Marjorie was also a dedicated volunteer community member, and she was active for many years in the League of Women Voters. As president of the Walpole chapter, she traveled to Denver to attend the national convention—one of the highlights of her civic engagement.

Marjorie was a devoted admirer of classical music and theater; she held long-standing subscriptions to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Trinity Repertory Company. She was also an enthusiastic traveler, going with her husband, Dean, on educational travel trips to Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

Marjorie is survived by her three children — Eric Smeltzer, Deanne Urmy, and Nancy Goldstein — as well as six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was so proud of them all.

She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, intellect, curiosity, and deep devotion to her family and community.