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It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Marlene on Monday, September 29th, 2025 at Marshall Gowland Manor Nursing Home in Sarnia, Ontario at the age of 91 years old. Beloved wife of the late William I. Brown (2020). Loving mother to Deborah Gray, Melanie Perz (John), and daughter in law Carolyn Brown (nee Work). Cherished Grandma to Shawn Gray, Darryl Gray, Adam Gray (Erica); Ryan Brown (Danielle), Graham Brown (Kate); Kendra Langis (Clinton), Brandon Yule, Desiree Gignac (Robert). Adored Great Grandma to Jakob Verberne, Eden Vernberne, and Landon Gray; Harlly Langis (Jake), Wyatt Langis, and Maddie Forget; Addison Brown, Jake Brown; Henry Brown. Great Great Grandchild “Shawn” expected in January of 2026 to Harlly and Jake. Marlene is also remembered by her sister Doris Breault. Predeceased by son, William (Gregory) Brown (2017), son in law Terry Gray (2016), grandson Shawn Langis (2010), granddaughter Erin Gray (1977) as well predeceased by her parents Percy (1952) and Ova (1980) Lapointe; brothers Gerald, Percy, Ray, Wilfred, Wilmer, Elmer, Archie, and Harold; sisters Ellen, and Evelyn. Marlene was born and raised in Northridge, Essex, Ontario. Mom returned to night school to complete her high school education to obtain employment outside of the home. She became a bookkeeper for various businesses in the Sarnia area, most notably at the Lambton Health Unit, where she eventually retired. Mom was a great cook. She always strived to have a favourite dish or dessert for us. Her butter tarts, cherry pies, and shortbread cookies are just a few examples. Tim Hortons was a staple to mom. HOT coffee and conversation went well together!! Marlene was a very talented and creative woman, ranging from oil painting, sketching with charcoal, pencil, and oil pastels to sewing various articles of clothing for her children, including dresses, coats, pyjamas, pants, and even collared shirts. Her love for gardening, traveling, and going for walks were also notable pastimes. Mom was a loving, caring, kind, generous woman who adored her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. Times of Splashdown, picnics, swimming at the beach, animal farm, sleepovers, playing games that will remain as life long memories cherished by her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A small family private service is being held. SMITH FUNERAL HOME entrusted with arrangements, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton, Sarnia and District Humane Society or Operation Smile Canada (cheques only at the funeral home, please). Her family would like to say a HUGE Thank you to the nurses and staff in the Iris wing at Marshall Gowland Manor for showing Marlene such compassion and care. The comfort you brought to her and our family will always be remembered and appreciated.
