Marlene Smith Denny

Marlene Smith Denny, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on May 18, 1928, Marlene's life was a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and the joy of song.

Marlene's journey began as the beloved daughter of Herman and Nellie Smith, and she grew up surrounded by her brothers Ted (June), Morris (Jean), Leo, Rex, Don, and Darrell. Marlene's heart found its match in Roy “Marshall” Denny, and together, for 73 years, they built a life rich in love and laughter. Though Marshall preceded her in death, their legacy continued to flourish through their devoted children and extended family.

Marlene's love story with Marshall blossomed into a beautiful family, including her daughter Karen Westmoreland, sons Harlan Denny (Jan) and Dwight Denny (Lisa), and daughter-in-law Shelbie Denny. She was a guiding star to her grandchildren Leslie Westmoreland, Dana George (Jacob), Jonathan Denny, Melissa Ellingson (Dustin), Dwayne Denny, Brandon Denny, Ashley Simon (Shawn), Grayson Denny (Melissa), and Whitney Riddle (Thomas), as well as her eight great-grandchildren. Marlene's family was the center of her universe, and she nurtured each relationship with grace and unwavering support.

Marlene's life was also marked by the sorrow of loss, as she was preceded in death by her son Michael Denny, her brothers Leo, Rex, Don, and Darrell Smith, her granddaughter Jennifer Denny and her son-in-law Butch Westmoreland. 

A woman of deep faith, Marlene was a long-standing member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where her melodious voice uplifted many as part of the Church Choir. Her devotion to her faith was evident in her commitment to the church community and her everyday actions, which were guided by love and compassion.

Marlene's spirit of service extended beyond the church walls as she actively participated in the Sauratown Fire Dept. Women's Auxiliary. Her contributions to the community were marked by her willingness to help and her ability to bring people together in times of need.
The family will receive friends on Monday, February 3, 2025 from 6pm-8pm at Mt. Olive Baptist Church.  A funeral service will be held at 12pm on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at the church officiated by Pastor Eric Hardman..  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the staff at Mountain Valley Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mtn. Valley Hospice 129 Veteran’s Dr. Pilot Mtn., NC 27041 or to the Mt. Olive Cemetery Trust c\o Wiley Burcham 1180 Chestnut Grove Rd. King, NC 27021.

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