Marika Creel Loveless, 71, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2026, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Born on August 20, 1955, Marika was the daughter of Charles and Gladys Creel. She lived a life defined by compassion, strength, intelligence, and a sincere desire to care for others.
Marika devoted much of her life to nursing and the care of people facing cancer. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Louisiana College and later earned a Master of Health Administration. A registered nurse and Oncology Certified Nurse, Marika built a distinguished career as both a clinical nurse and healthcare leader.
Throughout her career, she served patients and families through organizations including Aptium Oncology, Mission Health, and CHRISTUS Health. Among her leadership roles, she served as Executive Director of the Mission Cancer Program at Mission Health in Asheville, North Carolina. Marika had a particular gift for guiding cancer programs through periods of challenge and change. She helped strengthen their operations, renew their sense of purpose, and position them to provide better care for the communities they served-all while keeping the needs, dignity, and personal stories of patients at the center of every decision.
Although Marika accomplished much professionally, her titles and credentials tell only part of her story. She genuinely loved caring for her patients and for the people around her. Her compassion extended far beyond her work, and she was always willing to help those in need. Even in the final days of her own life, Marika continued caring for others, spending much of her time helping and supporting a dear friend who was battling cancer. It was a final reflection of the selfless and compassionate way she lived her entire life. Outside of caring for others, Marika enjoyed cooking, searching for special finds at estate sales, and proudly cheering on her grandsons at their sporting events.
To those who loved her most, Marika was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, family member, and friend. She will be remembered for her compassionate heart, generous spirit, strength, and lifelong dedication to helping others.
Marika is survived by her husband, Richard Loveless; her only son, Jason Hawk, and his wife, Rebecca; and her beloved grandsons, Colby Hawk and Bryce Hawk.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Gladys Creel; her sister, Rita Cooley; and her brother, Charles Michael “Mike” Creel.
Marika’s life made a difference far beyond what can be expressed in words. Through her nursing, leadership, and compassion, she brought knowledge, comfort, and hope to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Her greatest legacy, however, will remain in the family she loved and in the many lives made better because she was part of them.
A visitation in remembrance of Marika will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Junior League of Alexandria, 1005 Bayou Place, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Marika’s memory to MD Anderson’s Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support. Donation information is available at mdanderson.org by searching “Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support.”
Her life was one of service, compassion, and love, and her influence will continue through everyone whose life she touched.