Barbara Diane (Longino) Marcus- 81, of Savannah, GA, died peacefully in hospice care on April 5, 2026.

Born in Atlanta on June 17, 1944 to the late Barbara Fulbright and James Longino, she was raised in College Park.

Graduating College Park High School in 1962, she continued her education at Wesleyan College in Macon then UNC Chapel Hill earning a BA in English and later in life receiving a Masters in English from Drake University.

Diane had an extensive career in retail; first as a buyer for a major retail store in Atlanta where she met the love of her life, Joe. It was this experience and their combined strengths, tenacity, and good instincts, working side by side, they built a successful independent children’s furniture and gift store in Iowa before retiring to Joe’s hometown Savannah, GA.

Grace, elegance, skill, and creativity defined her pursuits- as a cook with a zeal to try new things and share with others, to being a voracious reader and getting immersed in the story, or her appreciation of music and playing the piano. This love of the Arts continued in her extensive travels throughout life and later with her volunteer work at the Telfair Museum working with children to share the joys of art.

Survived directly by her loving husband and partner of 56 years Joseph L. Marcus of Savannah, daughter Lise (Ryan) Brooks, grandchildren Gavan Marcus and Freya Brooks of Savannah. Sister Susan Noland of Smyrna, GA, niece Kathy (Kevin) Mobley Kluesner of Marietta, GA, great-nephew and niece Harrison and Hannah Mobley; niece Laurie (Scott) Young of Acworth, GA, great-nieces Madeline and Annabel Young. Sister Linda Longino of Bluffton, SC. Brother-in-Law Norman Nirenblatt of Boca Raton, FL, nephews Morris, Samuel, and David (Allison) Srochi, great-nephews Alan and Ryan Srochi, and great-nieces Jordan, Maddie, Lily, and Sara Srochi of Atlanta, GA.

A celebration of life will be held on May 29 at 11 am at Asbury Memorial Church in Savannah. 1008 E. Henry St.

Condolences can be sent to 514 Lee Blvd Savannah, GA 31405.