Marianne Christian, 56, of Augusta, passed away after a long illness on Monday, Jan. 28, 2019 at her sister’s home in Bridgton.

She was born on Oct. 8, 1962, in Portland, to the late Elizabeth (Hartman) Christian and Clifford F. Christian.

Marianne was preceded in death by her brother, Lawrence W. Fisher.

She lived most of her life in Portland and South Portland. She moved to Augusta in 2009 and also lived briefly in Oakland.

Marianne enjoyed reading (thrillers), bingo, crocheting, and living life her way. Friends and family members are welcome to attend the memorial service when a date has been determined.

A practicing Christian throughout her life, she happily became a communicant at Emmanuel Lutheran Episcopal Church in Augusta on Christmas Day 2014. She was a volunteer for many years at the church pantry. Marianne was a longtime member of Amistad in Portland — a social club supporting people with mental health issues. Marianne struggled with mental health issues all her life, working successfully to gain increasing independent living in the community. She was strongly committed to social justice and compassion for those suffering the effects of poverty, mental health issues, and substance abuse disorders. She advocated for their welfare including participating in an historic tent city camp-out in Lincoln Park in Portland to protest homelessness.

Marianne was a lover of Diet Pepsi and mocha lattes from Dunkin’ Donuts. She was also known for her tuna casserole, her sense of humor and a sarcastic wit. She loved shopping at Barnes and Noble, AC Moore and Walmart in Augusta — her favorite hangouts. She was a dedicated bingo player at the Elks Cub in Augusta and had been known to venture occasionally to Hollywood Slots. Marianne crocheted many afghans, hats and scarves. She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles for which she vied for table space with her beloved cat Nikki. She devoured books and collected many by her favorite authors, especially James Patterson.

Marianne is survived by her sister, Cheryl Williamson of Bridgton; a niece and nephews.

She wished that instead of flowers, donations be made in her memory to the animal refuge league shelters in Portland or Augusta.

A memorial service will be announced as arrangements are made. Her remains will share mantel space with her beloved mother until interment at Forest City Cemetery, South Portland.