FAMU icon Marquess dies at 100
Special to the Outlook
Dr. Carriemae Garnes Marquess was born in Boston MA on January 13, 1920, the younger of two daughters, to John Henry and Wilhelmina Bates Garnes. She entered eternal rest on June 14, 2020 at home in Tallahassee.
Marquess completed her early education in the public schools of Boston, and then entered Florida A& M College in Tallahassee. She graduated valedictorian in the class of 1941, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics. Her passion for knowledge inspired her to earn the Master of Science Degree in Home Economic and Institution Management at Columbia university Teachers College in New York in 1945 and a Ph.D. in Foods and Institution Management at Iowa State College in Ames, Iowa in 1958.
Marquess, an icon at Florida A&M University (FAMU), served the institution for 41 years, impacting the lives and careers of hundreds of young women and men. Her intellect, sincerity of purpose, demand for excellence, tough love, caring spirit, creative talents, and dedication to FAMU, characterized her career. Thus, she was appointed Professor Emeritus, awarded a 1987 University Centennial Medallion, and honored as one of 100 most distinguished FAMUans.
Dr. Carriemae Garnes Marquess was 100 years old at time of her death.
Photo submission to the Outlook
She credits God’s plan for her life’s extensive journey through 100 years of fruitful living. It is her belief in His love and His promises that have undergirded her work, service to mankind and her service as a faithful member of the Church of God. She was a dedicated and faithful member of the Tallahassee Church of God, where she served as church pianist/organist for the past 70 years and as treasurer and member of the Board of Directors for many years.
Dr. Marquess has also imprinted her mark on the Tallahassee community. She was an active volunteer and a member of both the American Dietetic Association and the American Home Economic Association, where she served more than fifty years. She was a life member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, where she served on the national board for several years. For 10 years she served on the Senior Society Planning Council having served as president for many years. In 1981 she was appointed by Governor Bob Graham as Florida Delegate to the White House Conference on Aging.
Marquess enjoyed Faberge egg artistry, which she has practiced for 25 years, exhibiting her beautiful egg art nationally and locally. Also an accomplished bridge player for 25 years, she has participated in many tournaments and won bronze, silver and Ruby life master awards. she was inducted as a Silver Star for her contributions to the elderly and the community.
Marquess had a flair for life and always tried to live to the fullest. She said, “It’s important to live well and to give the absolute best to yourself, your family and your friends.”
Marquess has been blessed and has unselfishly blessed many others. She leaves to celebrate her life, a granddaughter, Elizabeth Marquess (Stacey); grandson Michael Holt, who were her devoted caregivers, and a host of family, friends, and former students.
