Marlene Eloise Earhart was born June 28, 1942 in Cincinnati, Ohio to Isaac David Earhart and Lillie Mae (Fultz) Earhart. She was the only child born of this union.
Marline was reared in Wyoming, Ohio. She was educated in the Wyoming Public Schools. After graduating from Wyoming High School, she attended Central State University, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1967. She later pursued a Masters of Arts degree from Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio in Curriculum and Instruction.
A life-long educator, Marlene worked as a teacher for the Cincinnati Public Schools. She taught second grade for many years and loved teaching. She enjoyed seeing students grow and learn in pursuit of education. She retired after 30 plus years of service.
Marlene was not one to shy away from work; she was a Board Certified Realtor with Access Realty for numerous years. She was successful Sales Agent, who loved meeting people, showing properties and selling homes to families.
Marlene received Christ at an early age and joined Bethel AME Church in Lockland, Ohio, and served faithfully until her death. She was devoted to supporting various ministries in the church.
She was generous and charitable in so many ways, frequently giving donations to numerous organizations, ranging from the American Cancer Society to the APSCA. She loved animals, and always supported groups who cared for cats and dogs.
Marlene had a sweet and loving spirit. Her smile was “infectious.” She loved her family and friends, she enjoyed laughing and showered all in her presence with warmth and acceptance. She was a fun-loving person. Her comedic sense of humor was quite “notable,” without intending to be funny, she would make one smile or laugh.
She was a devoted member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 43 years, Sigma Omega Chapter, Cincinnati, Ohio. Marlene was a member of Central State University Alumni Association and Oak Avenue Alumni Association.
Marlene loved traveling to U.S. cities, the Caribbean and Europe. She was adventurous; parasailing while vacationing in the Caribbean. She especially loved cruising with family and friends. She loved dancing with her life partner, Donald Shabazz and socializing with friends and family.
Marlene leaves to mourn and cherish her precious memory her cousins, who are affectionately like her siblings, Carlis L. Barnett (Alice); Jacqueline C. Gholson; Donald Shabazz (life partner); numerous cousins, friends and Donald’s family.
She leaves behind a legacy of many memories and wonderful examples for us to follow. She is and will be missed.