Marlene Ellen Summers, age 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 16, 2024 in the care of Bridges Hospice at Heritage Manor, Brentwood.

Marlene was born in Pittsburgh in 1944 to her parents, Earl J. Summers and Mary Regina Friend Summers. Her father was serving in the military war effort at the time, so Marlene and her mother first lived with Regina's parents, Conrad and Marie Friend. Marlene attended St. Canice High School, Knoxville and called the Pittsburgh area home for the rest of her life.

Marlene was a strong, independent, single woman at a time when that was still unusual. She worked at Marsh & McLennan Incorporated in the insurance business for many years. Marlene pursued and earned the opportunity to become one of the first women in the state of Pennsylvania to be out "on the road" selling insurance policies and benefits directly to individual customers and companies.&

Marlene was an incredible woman of faith and lived that faith in action. She was one of twelve finalists in the 1974-75 United Way Ambassador contest. She volunteered with the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Diocese wellness community, delivering meals and comfort to those suffering with AIDS. She was a long-time Eucharistic Minister at Mercy Hospital and continued that ministry at Heritage Manor as often as she was able.

As a young woman, Marlene's first travels away from Pittsburgh were to spend time camping, swimming and waterskiing on the Mississippi River. In later life, she loved traveling abroad with friends and especially with her mother, visiting Switzerland, Italy and France. Marlene was a vivacious, bubbly and passionate lady, who experienced many personal challenges. She cherished memories and mementos, knowing in detail the story of every treasured family tchotchke. There was never anyone more delighted over an excellent meal or a champaign toast.

Marlene is survived by her brother Robert (Patricia) Summers of South Carolina, his children and grandchildren; her aunt Louise Friend Myers; and cousins Christine, Michael and Patrick Friend, Paul (Noreen) Gretz, Nancy Pedula, Kathy Peer, Donna Willebrand and Sarah Yealy; and dear friend Doug Clewett. Marlene's joyful light will be missed by all who loved her.

Visitation will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday at Boron Funeral Home, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 PM at St. Basil Church of Blessed Trinity Parish. Interment will be private. If you wish to honor Marlene's memory, please perform random acts of kindness in the world and think of her when you see the ocean.

www.BoronFuneralHome.com