Marlene Kay Henson
In Loving Memory
Marlene Henson, born on May 20, 1955, in Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, in Dunedin, Florida, at the age of 70. Just weeks shy of her 71st birthday, Marlene leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Marlene was a woman whose presence could light up any room. She was strong-willed, fun-loving, and fiercely protective of those she held dear. Her warmth and openness made everyone feel welcome, as though they had known her forever. She had a gift for bringing people together with her humor and her vibrant spirit.
She shared an extraordinary love story with her husband, Les. Childhood sweethearts who grew up together, they built a life side by side over 51 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children—Tina (married to Jelani), Dawn (married to Michael), Myra, and Les—and created a family rooted in love and togetherness.
One of Marlene’s greatest joys was being a grandmother and great-grandmother. She cherished her grandchildren—Kameron, Shawn, Trae, Justin, Kalob, Isabella, Alice, Christopher, Michael, Nicholas, and Emanda—and her great-grandchildren—Noah, Zeke, Trae Jr., Kamyla, Gianna, Amiyah, Kalani, Kaila, Kamali, Mikey, and Milo. Her pride in them was boundless; nothing brought her more happiness than cheering them on and watching them grow.
Marlene was one of four siblings and shared a special bond with her baby sister Nancy. They were not only sisters but best friends who supported each other through life’s joys and challenges. Marlene now joins her brother Johnnie and her dearest friend Peggy in heaven. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews—John Loyd, Roy, Wanda, Shelly, Becky, Georgie, and Larry—who admired and loved her deeply.
A lover of nature with an extraordinary green thumb, Marlene could turn the smallest seed into something beautiful. Her gardens were a testament to her care and patience—a reflection of the way she nurtured everything in her life. She also had a deep connection to the sun and the beach; the water was where she felt most at peace. Whether soaking up the sunshine or simply enjoying the moment by the shore, Marlene’s spirit was as warm and bright as the sun she loved so much.
Above all else, Marlene was a protector—a fierce advocate for her family who loved deeply and unconditionally. She gave strength and guidance to those around her while creating a home filled with laughter and love. Her legacy lives on in the stories shared by those who knew her best and in the enduring bonds she built within her family.
While it is difficult to imagine life without Marlene’s presence, she will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her. Her memory will live on in every laugh shared among family members, every story told about her remarkable life, and every moment spent in the warmth of the sun or surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Marlene Henson will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and inspire joy in celebrating the life she lived so fully.
Rest in peace, Marlene. You are loved always and forever.