Marlene Edwards

Marlene "mama" Edwards first open her eyes on Thursday, April 19, 1962 at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. She was twelfth child born to Lonnie and Dorothy Mae Edwards, who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death was one sister, Kitty, and two brothers, Abraham and Jewel. Marlene confessed a hope in Christ at an early age, as a member of St.Ralphael the Archangel Catholic Church. She later joined Old Ship of Zion Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Joel Currington. She graduated from Gage Park High School in June 1980. Marlene was dedicated to her seven childern and gave of herself to the community without expectation of anything in return. She worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and then as a dietician at the University of Chicago Hospital until 2005,when she went on disability.During chemotherapy and radiation treatments, Marlene worked tirelessly, sun up and sun down. She went through losing her hair and her appetite-but never her radiant spirit and beautiful smile. Even through she was sick for more than 15 years, she was diagnosed with other illnesses over time you would not have known it. She never complained. She just lived and enjoyed life and everything it had to offer. Marlene used her time from 2005 until the day she was called home to serve-for education, family, equality,community, anything that she believed in. She held the role of President of the Local School Council at King Elementary and served on the Local School Council at Crane High School as well. Marlen was a Woman of Wisdom (# WOW). She was loved for her support, advice, encouragement, love and a amazing cook. She was passionate about living life everyday with no worries. She was known for her beautiful and perpetual smile. Marlene loved having a great time,reminding you to smile, be humble, and mind your manners-and letting you know that everything was going to be "just fine".