Marcella Sue Porter, 81, a resident of Bedford and lifelong educator, passed into eternity on Saturday, October 9, 2021 at a Dallas hospital. For over eight decades, she brought joy to everyone who knew her. Beloved Member of the Family Born September 20, 1940, in Kingsville, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Harry Brown Porter and Eva Grace Ewing Porter. Besides her parents, Savior, and Heavenly Father, welcoming her into heaven were her brothers, Harry Porter, Jr. and Robert Porter, sisters Linda Lynd and Harriet Stevens, and brother-in-law Bill Stevens. She is survived by a family who deeply loved and admired her: two brothers, David Porter and Lewis Porter, two sisters-in-law, Lillian Porter and Dena Porter, one brother-in-law, Chester Lynd, several cousins, and numerous nieces and nephews that she doted on unendingly. She will be remembered as the communications hub of the family, and the person who made everyone feel recognized and celebrated. Outside of her relatives, she also built a community of close friends that supported and cared for one another, making her an honorary member of many families. In particular, the Porters would like to thank her dear friends, Pam Grimes, Sherrie Vandiver, Alice Worthy, and Marty Urand who were present during many of lifes big and small moments. Devoted to Teaching and Education Her career in education spanned 42 years, no doubt leaving a mark on scores of students and peers. Before retiring in 2002, she worked as a physical education teacher and then as the K-12 Physical Education and Health Coordinator for Irving ISD. As the coordinator for Irving ISD, her programs were the showcase for other districts to follow. In fact, she was instrumental in leading Texas to a national number one ranking for The American Heart Associations Jump Rope for Heart campaign, which was achieved for over 10 years. Marcella also served as president of the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (TAHPERD) in 1986 1987. In this role, she led thousands of educators in their efforts to promote active, healthy lifestyles. And though she never sought out recognition, she received it nonetheless. In 1990, she received TAHPERDs Honor Award, and later, their highest award, The David K. Brace Award, in 1998. Additionally, to commemorate her outstanding commitment to education, an Irving Schools Foundation student scholarship was established in 1996 in her name and awarded each year to a student planning on becoming a physical education teacher. Even after her retirement, Marcella continued mentoring teachers and inspiring the next generation of educators. A Faithful Member of Her Church Though she loved teaching, Marcellas faith was the most important aspect of her life, and she was an active member of Belt Line Road Church of Christ. While there, she started and was in charge of their program to make and deliver stuffed bears to children in hospitals. Through this endeavor, thousands of bears were proved to children battling illness. Marcella also took care of their library, played dominos every week with other senior members, and made countless visits and phone calls to those who needed encouragement. And you could always count on her to be in her seat every Sunday morning to sing praises to God with an alto harmony. A Lasting Impression Outside of her many accomplishments, Marcella will always be known for her incredible attitude and unfailing kindness. She was shoulder to lean on, a cheerleader, and a friend to all. Those who knew her will also remember that she had a story for every occasion, loved animals of all kinds, enjoyed traveling, and was first to raise her hand when someone wanted to play games. She lived a full life and made a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Join Us in Continuing Her Legacy A memorial service to celebrate Marcellas life and impact will be held in Irving at Belt Line Road Church of Christ on Saturday, November 6th at 2:00 p.m. Anyone unable to join is encouraged to leave your own memory on the funeral home website: https://www.donnellyscolonial.com/obituary/marcella-porter. Marcella dedicated her life to education, so in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Marcella Porter Health and Physical Education Scholarship. Donate online: https://irvingschoolsfoundation.org Include your donation amount Designate to "Other" and specify Marcella Porter Scholarship Fund Donate by Check: Make checks payable to the Marcella Porter Scholarship Fund Irving Schools Foundation 2621 West Airport Freeway Irving, Texas 75062 Thank you for remembering and celebrating such a special person! Marcella will be deeply missed. SERVICES Graveside Service

Sunday, October 17, 2021 2:00 PM

Cleburne Memorial Cemetery 405 Waters Street Cleburne, TX 76031

Memorial Service

Saturday, November 06, 2021 2:00 PM

Belt Line Church of Christ 1202 N. Belt Line Road Irving, Texas 75061