Celeste Louise Marentis, 71, of Jacksonville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Celeste lived a life defined by service, friendship, generosity, and a deep love for her family and animals. She proudly served our country for twenty years in the United States Navy. After retiring from active duty, she continued that commitment through another twenty years of Civil Service, completing a remarkable forty years of service to our country.

A celebration of life will be held when details are finalized.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fredrick Stephen Marentis; her mother, Bettye Jayne Marentis; her stepmother, Dimples Irene Marentis; her sister-in-law, Kathy Marentis; and her nephew, Matthew Schwartzer.

Celeste leaves behind her son, Daniel Lima, and daughter-in-law, Heather Lima; her beloved grandchildren, Emma Lima and Benjamin Lima of Winterville, North Carolina; her aunt, Pat Birchmier of Gilroy, California; her brother, Stephan Alan Marentis of Pinehurst, North Carolina; her brother and sister-in-law, Todd and Pamela Marentis of Nipomo, California; her sister and brother-in-law, Maurene and Don Schwartzer of Waikoloa, Hawaii; her nieces, Lauren Schwartzer of California and Stephanie Buchanan of Lewisburg, Kentucky; and her cousins, Shirley Marentis of Oak Harbor, Washington, and Gary Marentis of Hollister, California.

A true social butterfly, Celeste made friends wherever life took her. From her childhood in Hollister, California, to Navy duty stations in Lemoore, California; Subic Bay, Philippines; and San Francisco, California, and later to her home in Jacksonville, she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. She raised her son, Daniel, with strength and devotion, and passed on to him her deep love of our country.

Celeste had a gift for making people feel remembered and cared for. She stayed in touch with friends for years, opened both her heart and her home to those in need, and was always ready to share a good recipe, offer advice, or lend whatever she could. She was a patient listener who genuinely wanted to know what was happening in the lives of others. She remembered birthdays and anniversaries, celebrated life's happiest moments, and cried alongside those experiencing loss.

She was also the family's storyteller. No detail was ever left out, and she could bring back memories others had long forgotten. Her stories, warmth, and generous spirit made every gathering richer.

Celeste's compassion extended to animals as naturally as it did to people. There was always a dog, a cat, or some combination waiting to greet her when she came home from work and later keeping her company in retirement. Even the neighborhood animals seemed to know that Celeste's home was a safe and loving place.

Celeste will be remembered for her faithful service, her fierce devotion to family and friends, her wonderful stories, and the kindness she gave so freely. To know Celeste was to have a friend for life, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Celeste was a beacon of light in the world, and the world is a little dimmer after her passing.