Marlene Kay Black

Marlene Kay Black, age 82, of Marion, OH passed away quietly, peacefully, and surrounded with love from her husband and daughter, and several employees on Monday, May 19th, 2025, at Marion Valley Post Acute.

Born on November 1st, 1942, in Marion, Ohio. Marlene was one of eleven children of the late Homer Spears and Eva Marie (Austin) Spears. She attended Ridgedale High School, and in her 50’s worked extremely hard and attained her G.E.D.

On Christmas Eve 1959, she married the love of her life Robert Black; together they shared 65 years of marriage. They enjoyed many nights of games with friends. Marlene worked at Olney Elementary in the cafeteria, as well as helping students as an aide. Marlene loved to crochet, and read; having many, many bookshelves. Her and Bob’s greatest joy was their granddaughter Alexus, and the time they spent with her.

She is survived by her husband Robert, and daughter Kourtney Black; grandchildren, Alexus Burns, Malakai Black, and Rae’Shaun Bonney; all of Marion, Ohio. As well as David (Dominique) Whetstone, Jeremy Whetstone, and Nicolas Whetstone (all of Fort Wayne, Indiana). Her great-grandchildren, Juliana, Zuri, Sam, David, & Amelia. As well as her sister Sheryl (Carol) Boggs.

In addition to her parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her daughter Kay (David) Whetstone, as well as 9 brothers and sisters: Gloria (Charles) Fosnaugh, Norma (William) Rogers, James (Thelma) Spears, Stanley Spears, Ronald Spears, Connie Houston, Robert (Melba) Spears, & Gennie Spears. As well as one sister who passed this last week, Carolyn (Walter) Wilson.

The family will have a Celebration of Life Thursday, June 12th, 2025, at 2pm, at Marion Valley Post Acute, 400 Barks Rd W. Marion, Ohio 43302. Donations may be made through the family’s gofundme. As well as to the Alzheimer’s Association in Marlene’s name. A special thank you to Affordable Cremation Services, for their exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.