Monday, March 25, 2024
My sister, Marlene was always young at heart. In many ways much like a child who never grew up. Marlene could be a stinker at times, often stubborn, and difficult but would never knowingly hurt others. She enjoyed people and was not shy to talk to anyone even strangers. And in those moments, strangers would respond to her with warmth and friendship. She had that effect on them.
After her divorce she realized she liked her independence more than being married and never married again. Marlene filled her life with work, friends, and children that she loved in her family and her church and taught Sunday School. On holidays and family events she enjoyed being with her nieces and nephews and loved playing board games, card games, and Chinese checkers with them. It was the child-like spirit in her that never grew up just like Peter Pan.
Marlene and I were opposites on many things but always got along and respected each other because we were sisters. I knew I loved her, cared about her, and tried to always look after her even though she was my older sister. But when she passed away on that Friday evening, I realized just how much I loved her and will miss her.
When Marlene passed that Friday night, she had such a peaceful and calm look on her face that you could see she was at peace. Marlene looked as if she had been escorted home by an angel or Jesus himself and that filled my heart with peace. I will miss you Marlene and I love you. Your sister, Joyce.