Marlene C. Zeigler, age 84, passed away on August 8, 2026. She was born on September 16, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Cleo and Audrey Pope.

​Marlene was the oldest of five children. As the firstborn, she held a special place in her family and helped set an example of strength, love, and care for those who followed.

​Marlene accepted Christ early in life and attended Shiloh Baptist Church.

​Marlene graduated from John Hay High School in 1959, where she played basketball and was very active on social committees. She was well known among her peers, but even more meaningful than her notoriety was the fact that she was truly well loved.

​After high school, Marlene married Grady Zeigler, and from that union one daughter, Yvette, was born. That union lasted 18 years.

​Marlene was a hard worker who genuinely loved to work. Marlene always had a full-time job, part-time job, and even an under-the-table job!

Over the years, she worked for Standard Oil, which later became BP Oil, CVS, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, as well as Judson Senior Living Center. She also held various part-time jobs throughout her life, always demonstrating dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic. She was an avid movie goer & loved to shop.

​On August 28, 1993, Marlene married a dear high school friend, David Childress. They remained married until his death in 2016. Together, they shared a full life of traveling, spending time with family, and enjoying each other’s company.

​Marlene departed this life on August 8, 2026. She leaves to cherish her memory her only child, Yvette Zeigler; her only grandson, Julian Turner, who lovingly referred to her as “Sugar”; her siblings, Ella Mae (deceased), Maurice, Clyde Pope (deceased), Dayle Pope, and Brenda Pope; and her two dearest friends, Ella Rawls and Betty Joe Cross.

She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Cleo and Audrey Pope.

​The family also wants to thank The Avenue of Macedonia, Memory Care unit, caregivers, hospice team, and friends, for their compassion, support, and kindness during this time.