DORSET, VT. – Marcia King, 71, a woman held in high regard by all who knew her, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9. For the last 12 years, Marcia was confined to a wheelchair after suffering a stroke. She carried on cheerfully, without complaint.
The Kings are well known on the show circuit, particularly to those who attend the Wilton and Rhinebeck events. R. Scudder Smith, publisher of Antiques and The Arts Weekly, fondly recalled Marcia as a warm and charming person who always had the time to chat about her family and her latest acquisitions – particularly the prime selection of mocha that she exhibited with such pride.
“We will certainly miss her presence, but are pleased to hear that Bill will carry on with the business,” said Smith.
Charles and Barbara Adams have been close friends with Marcia and Bill King for more than 20 years, first meeting at the Coventry flea market.
“Marcia was a wonderful person,” said Barbara Adams. “After her first misfortunate accident, she continued on and never once complained. She was a real role model, a pleasant individual, and she was active in her community. Marcia was someone to really admire – she never let her disability stop her at all. We will miss her dearly.”
Other long-time friends included Jack and Ray Van Gelder, who remembered Marcia as a “beautiful lady who showed courage and bravery in the face of a very disabling illness. She was an example to all her family, friends and business associates, continuing to do shows, setting up and dismantling in spite of all the problems this effort required. Marcia King will always be loved and remembered.”
Show manager Marilyn Gould fondly recalled Marcia, stating, “Marcia and Bill King were an important part of the Wilton shows for many years – a delightful couple with quality merchandise. They were also good friends. Marcia was a gallant lady who dealt with difficult circumstances with grace and courage. We will miss her greatly. Marcia and Bill King had been fixture in the Wilton Shows for more than a decade; reportedly, Bill will continue exhibiting.”
“Joan and I have been intimate friends with the Kings for many years,” commented Rufus Foshee. “It is a sad loss. Marcia will be greatly missed.”
A memorial service will be held in Dorset, Vt., on March 8, 2003. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dorset Nursing Association, PO Box 549, Dorset, VT 05251.
