Obituary
Martha “Marcy” Ann Voyles, 83, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 8,2025, at Lakewood Ranch Hospice House, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on August 1, 1941, in Melrose, Massachusetts, Marcy was the daughter of the late Alden and Jeraldine Tibbetts. She graduated from Coral Gables High School in 1959 and earned her degree in Home Economics and Child Development from Florida State University in 1963.
Marcy began her professional journey teaching early childhood education at Miami Dade Junior College from 1963 to 1964. That same year, she married her college sweetheart, Jeff. Together, they made their home in Sarasota, where they built a life filled with love, family, and purpose over the next 61 years.
A pioneer in early childhood education in Sarasota County, Marcy was proud to be the area’s first kindergarten teacher, serving at both Bay Haven Elementary and McClellan Park School. In 1974, she became the inaugural Director of Childcare Services at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where she helped establish one of the first employer- sponsored childcare programs in the region. Under her leadership, a modest program blossomed into two state-of-the-art, million-dollar centers that received numerous accolades for excellence. After 20 years of dedicated service, she retired, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the lives of countless families and children.
Beyond her professional achievements, Marcy was known for her joyful spirit and loving heart. She delighted in crafting, playing games, and dancing, and she treasured summers spent in Surry, Maine. Her warm smile and boundless love for children and her family touched everyone she met.
Marcy is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Jeff; daughters Lori (Tony) and Susan (Rob); grandchildren Kristen (Dan), Katherine (Garrett), Leigh Ellen (John), Abigail, and Ethan; and great-grandchildren Clara, Annie, Silas, Murphey, and Walter. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings Diane Bye (Cliff), Nancy Stevens, and Rodney Tibbetts.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother-in-law Michael Stevens; and two sisters-in-law Vicki Fry and Jill Tibbitts.
Marcy’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, education, and family. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her.
Details regarding a celebration of life will be shared with family and friends in the coming days.
We were so very sorry to learn of Marcy's passing. Marcy was a nice lady. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.