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.
