Marjorie “Margie” Jean Kildow

Marjorie Jean Kildow, affectionately known by her family as “Margie,” passed away peacefully on Friday, August 21, 2026, at the age of 73, under the compassionate care of Cleveland Clinic Hospice. Known for her infectious laugh, joyful spirit, and ability to light up every room she entered, Marjorie leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories and a family who adored her.
She was born on August 2, 1953, in Canton, Ohio, to Jake and Elizabeth Jean (nee Klingensmith) Britton. Margie graduated from the Ohio State School of Cosmetology and began what would become a remarkable 53-year career as a hairstylist in 1973. Throughout the years, she worked at several salons, including Avril’s, Michael Angelo’s, and Hair Expressions, before retiring in May 2026.
For Margie, hairstyling was much more than a profession. Her warm personality and genuine interest in others allowed her to form lasting relationships with coworkers and clients alike.  Over the years, many became dear friends, especially, Nora, Maria, Leigh,, Marge, Michelle, Sandy, and Nellie.  She loved people, loved conversation, and had a special way of making those around her feel welcome.
Margie approached life with happiness and enthusiasm. She enjoyed macramé, ceramics, shopping, playing board games, and encouraged and monitored and cheered on the daily family Wordle. She loved to bake and was especially known for her Christmas cookies and homemade chocolates, which she generously shared with family and friends each holiday season.
A devoted Cleveland sports fan, Margie faithfully cheered on the Browns, Cavaliers, and, most especially, the Cleveland Guardians. She also had a keen interest in world events and politics and enjoyed staying informed about what was happening both close to home and around the world.
Above everything else, Margie treasured her family. Margie was often the one making plans, organizing family vacations, and looking forward to special sister weekends. She understood the importance of being together and created countless traditions and memories that her family will carry with them for years to come.
Her greatest joy, however, came from being a grandmother. Her grandchildren were truly the center of her world. Whether sitting in the stands, cheering from the sidelines, or proudly watching from the audience, Margie never wanted to miss a sporting event, school activity, or special occasion in their lives. Her grandchildren could always count on her presence, her encouragement, and her unconditional love.
Margie is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Mark Kildow; daughters, Jessica (Elliott) Peck and Leah (Tim) Renner; son, Benjermin (Ashley) Kildow; grandchildren, Prestyn, Jocie Lou, and Mark John Peck, Cooper and Jace Renner, and Stella and Evalyn Kildow; siblings, Doris (Mike) Heagle, Randy (Judy) Britton, Susie (Dean) Albert, and Nancy (Frank) Mayo; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jake and Elizabeth Jean Britton Hall.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral center. Private inurnment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in Margie’s memory to Cleveland Clinic Hospice, Cleveland Clinic Philanthropy Institute-Desk DV, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 4495. Please be sure to mark Cleveland Clinic Hospice in the memo.
The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to her primary doctor, all the doctors and nurses at the Cleveland Clinic Oncology Department for the remarkable care that was given to Margie.
Margie will be remembered for the laughter she brought into a room, the friendships she nurtured, the traditions she created, and, most of all, the tremendous love she gave to her family. The spirit of “Mighty Margie” will live on in every family gathering, every game cheered from the stands, every Christmas cookie shared, and every memory that brings a smile.