Olive Mariann Engelbrecht

Mariann Engelbrecht, a resident of Tunnel Hill, Georgia, passed away on January 8, 2025, at the age of 76. She was born on February 17, 1948, in Durban, South Africa, and spent her childhood in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, alongside her much older brother and sister.

Mariann’s early years were marked by challenges, but her resilience and determination shaped her into an independent, compassionate and loving person who faced adversity with grace.

After graduating from high school in 1965, Mariann pursued her passion and earned a master’s degree in hair styling. She worked in the industry for several years before exploring various career paths. Her love for connecting with people ultimately led her to a successful career in sales and later to achieving her dream of owning her own advertising and printing business, from which she eventually retired.

Mariann will always be remembered as a caring and loving person. She radiated warmth and positivity, finding joy in even the smallest moments. Every day, even during her most challenging health struggles, she would remind us all that it was a “good day to be alive.” Her hugs were legendary, you simply couldn’t leave her presence without being wrapped in her comforting embrace. Her genuine smile lit up every room and every heart.

She had an incredible ability to make others feel special and seen. Mariann was a source of encouragement and kindness, whether through her thoughtful words, acts of generosity, or her enduring presence. She deeply cherished her fiancé Al, her family, extended family, and her friends, and her love for them was unwavering.

In recent years, as her health declined, Mariann found joy in chatting with new found friends, spending time watching adorable animal videos or inspiring content on YouTube. In her more vibrant days, she was an adventurous fiercely independent and strong woman. She had a deep passion for nature, gardening, reading, and traveling, often embracing new experiences with enthusiasm and grace. Her legacy of love, resilience, strength, and joy will live on in all who were lucky enough to know her.

Mariann is preceded in death by her father, Hugo; her mother, Dorothy Beckerling; her brother, Louie Beckerling; and her sister, Ruth Warwick.

She is survived by her daughter, grandsons, fiancé, and extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Smith Memorial Chapel, 755 Atlanta Hwy SE, Winder, GA 30680. A live stream will also be available on Facebook for friends and family unable to attend in person: https://www.facebook.com/SmithMemoryChapel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mariann’s honor to a charity that supports children or animals.