Ms. Marlene Smith

Marlene Smith was born April 18, 1946, the second child of Willie and Lorraine Willis. She had three sisters, Darlene, her Irish twin (born ten months apart), Linda, who preceded her in death and baby sister Contrina. “Tootsie” as she was affectionately called by her family and loved ones, was the heart and soul of her family. Marlene took great pride in working hard and making an honest living. She was particularly proud of the relationships she formed while working in South Haven, Michigan and Kalamazoo, Michigan at the Eaton Corporation and for Marshalls. Marlene’s greatest joy was the love she had for her family, particularly her four children, Anthony, Erick, Lorraine and Robin. She was so proud of each of them and the families they raised. Marlene was a loving daughter, faithful sister, best auntie, sweetest grandmother, fun-loving co-worker, special cousin, kind-hearted niece and dearest friend. One of Marlene’s passions was for the finer things in life. She loved shopping! She liked beautiful artwork, jewelry, designer perfumes, purses and clothes but she always kept things in perspective because she would give you the shirt of her back if you were in need. A beautiful legacy left for a beautiful woman who touched so many lives. She is survived by: her mother, Lorraine Willis, Covert, MI; two sons: Anthony Whitehead (Denita), Grand Rapids, MI; Erick Whitehead, Indianapolis, IN; two daughters: Lorraine Whitehead (Willis), Redford, MI; Robin Oquendo (Ramon), Kalamazoo, MI; two sisters: Darlene Cox (Charles), Altamonte Springs, FL; Contrina Thomas, Kalamazoo, MI; five grandchildren: Autumn Dozier, Denzale Whitehead, Ericka Whitehead, Anthony Whitehead, Jr. and Jessica Whitehead; two nephews: Pierre Willis (Paula), Katy, TX; Andre’ Woods (Shamiria), Tallahassee, FL; three nieces: Jacqueline Willis, Tallahassee, FL; Monique W. Long, Orlando, FL; Nicole Woods, Orlando, FL; aunt, Dorothy Walker, Chicago, Illinois; six cousins: Renee Walker, Covina, California; Sandra Walker, Chicago, Illinois; Ralph Walker, Covina, California; Michael Walker, San Antonio, Texas; Jason Walker, San Antonio, Texas; Larry Walker, Philippines; dear friends: Sherrie & Kyra Evans, Chicago, IL; Sheila & Carla Burford, Chicago, IL; a host of great-nieces and nephews, family and friends and best friend for over fifty years, Julie Lorraine Scott, Chicago, IL.

Ms. Marlene Smith

April 18, 1946 - March 2, 2015