Marcia L. Anderson, Ph.D., 69, Educator, Active In Community
Dr. Marcia L. Anderson, of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 16, 2025. She was 69 years old.
Born in Ludwigsburg, Germany, Marcia was adopted by Warren and Marjorie Cornell while her Dad was stationed overseas. She was just two years old when her family returned to the United States and settled in Eatontown, New Jersey, where she spent her formative years. Marcia graduated from Monmouth Regional High School and later pursued a Bachelor’s Degree from Monmouth College, a Master’s Degree from Kean University, a second Master’s degree from Rutgers University, and eventually a Ph.D. from Montclair University.
As an educator, Marcia made an indelible mark. She was a beloved professor at Kean University, William Paterson University and Montclair University, where she taught courses in Earth Studies, which included Geology and Oceanography for many years. Her passion for learning and her commitment to nurturing young minds were evident in her work, which inspired many students throughout her long career. In addition to her academic endeavors, most recently, Marcia served for 15 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she worked diligently on behalf of the environment and was on the cusp of retirement.
Outside of her professional life, Marcia was also deeply committed to her community and her many interests. She was an active member of the Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood, the College Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains, and the American Society of Landscape Architecture (ASLA). Marcia also dedicated many years to guiding young minds as a Girl Scout Leader and was a Certified Tree Expert, reflecting her love for nature and the outdoors. In her spare time, she was an avid gardener, and enjoyed reading, swimming, and spending time with her dog, Sandy. She also cherished spending time at her other residences in Lyman, Maine, and Melbourne Beach, Florida. Marcia leaves behind her devoted husband, Kenneth G. Anderson, Jr.; their four children, Michael Anderson, Monica (Anderson) Mann and her husband, Gregory, Matthew Anderson and his wife, Caitlin, and Martin Anderson, as well as six adoring grandchildren, Christina, Andrew, Gunnar, Jonathan, Nathanial and Keegan.
A Visitation will be held at Memorial Funeral Home, 155 South Avenue, Fanwood, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Scotch Plains, followed by interment at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the College Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains (www.paypal.com/donate/? hosted_button_id=5XZQCMLX2V3BA) or Shriners Hospital (lovetotherescue.org).
March 20, 2025
