Marjorie Dell Berry Hathaway

October 15, 1941 – October 15, 2026

Marjie Hathaway, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, educator, and lifelong advocate for natural childbirth, passed away on October 15, 2026, her 85th birthday, surrounded by her loving family.

A longtime resident of Sherman Oaks, California, Marjie devoted much of her life to helping families prepare for the birth of their children. As one of the founders of The Bradley Method^® of Natural Childbirth and longtime Executive Director of the American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth, she played an instrumental role in bringing childbirth education to generations of expectant parents. Her dedication to natural childbirth, informed choices, and the important role of husbands in birth helped shape the lives of countless families. She continued her work with the Academy until her retirement in 2025.

In recognition of her professional achievements, leadership, and contributions to families and the community, Marjie was honored as one of the Outstanding Young Women of America, a national recognition celebrating women distinguished by their accomplishments and service to others.

Marjie and her beloved husband, Jay Hathaway, were married on December 10, 1960, and shared nearly 55 years of marriage. Together, they traveled throughout the United States and around the world, presenting workshops and leading Bradley Method^® teacher training programs. Their shared passion for helping families created a lasting legacy through the teachers they trained and the families they inspired.

Faith was an important part of Marjie's life. She and Jay were active members of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Studio City, California, where Marjie served on the Altar Guild. Her involvement in the church was another expression of her dedication to serving others and the community she loved.

Above all, Marjie loved her family. She was the proud mother of six children: Odell Hathaway, Susan Bek, Constance Sherman, James Hathaway, Robert Hathaway, and Ann Hathaway. She was also a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jay, in 2015, and her son James, in 2023.

Children held a special place in Marjie's heart, and she delighted in being surrounded by family, laughter, and the happy bustle of a full house.

Marjie loved to cook, especially when there were lots of people to feed. She was known for her wonderful turkey dinners, spaghetti, and all the amazing breakfasts she prepared. Sunday brunch after church was something everyone looked forward to. For Marjie, preparing a meal was about much more than food. It was a way of bringing people together, making everyone feel welcome, and showing her love.

Marjie also loved wrapping gifts, especially at Christmas. She and her friend Emma enjoyed making beautiful bows and offering gift-wrapping services to family and neighbors. With more than a dozen wrapping papers to choose from, they turned wrapping presents into an occasion of its own. It was another way Marjie shared her creativity, generosity, and love of bringing joy to others.

A talented musician and piano teacher, Marjie shared her love of music with her students and family. Whether teaching music, preparing a family feast, or helping expectant parents welcome a new baby, she brought dedication, generosity, and a genuine love of people to everything she did.

Marjie enjoyed her later years, filling them with friendship, service, and wonderful adventures. She loved playing cards, working on puzzles, and painting, and she cherished time with her two beloved cats, Jack and Gigi. She found joy in the people around her and in opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. Throughout her life, she was someone who showed up for her friends and loved ones, offering her time, care, and friendship whenever it was needed. In return, she was surrounded by people who loved and cared for her.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for the family she cherished, the lives she touched, and the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind.

Marjie will be laid to rest in a private family service.