Marian Balsamo

Marian P. Balsamo, 76, of Fayetteville, passed away on September 4, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Marian was born on December 11, 1949, in Freeport, Illinois, to the late Vincent and Ellen Giuffre.

Marian loved her family deeply, but her grandchildren held an especially treasured place in her heart. She delighted in spoiling them every chance she got and filled their childhoods with love, laughter, and memories they continue to cherish as adults.

In addition to her parents, Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Martin J. Balsamo, a Vietnam veteran.

She is survived by her daughters, Christina Heir and husband, Dan, of Apex, and Michelle Walden and husband, Kirk, of Fayetteville; her grandchildren, Jacob Heir and wife, Sarah, Emily Heir, Alex Walden, and Emily Walden; her great-grandchildren, Tino Heir and Angelina Heir; her sister, Mary Backus and husband, Jake, of Freeport, Illinois; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake, where Marian will be laid to rest with her husband. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to a hospice organization of your choice in honor of Marian. Your generosity will help sustain the meaningful work of these organizations and serve as a heartfelt tribute to her life and legacy.

Online condolences may be made at Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory website.