Marlyn Faye Bray Boatwright

Marlyn Faye Bray Boatwright, 68, died peacefully in her Raleigh home on July 7, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. She was given only a few days to live in 2019, but fought bravely for several years.

Marlyn loved Raleigh, walking nearly every sidewalk inside the Beltline, admiring homes, beautiful flowers and supporting local businesses. Marlyn is best known as the owner and artist behind American Hairlines, the little yellow hair salon at 610 Glenwood Ave, a pillar of the original “Glenwood South” district and hairdresser to many of Raleigh’s most distinguished clientele.

Born in Roxboro, NC, Marlyn moved to Raleigh for cosmetology school and never looked back. Taught by Vidal Sassoon himself, she perfected Paul Mitchell, Aveda and Goldwell techniques, taking tremendous pride in her artistry. She gave every client a special brand of warmth and charm so they left with elevated spirits and a beautiful style.

Marlyn leaves behind so many dear friends; however, her most beloved relationships were with her life partner and soul mate, Lynn Hockett, and her only child, Noël.

She is survived by her partner, Lynn R. Hockett, of Raleigh; her daughter, Noël Paton Boatwright-Lopez (Major Jason Lopez), and five grandchildren: Landri Grace, Jackson, Andrew, Emma, and Cooper Lopez all of Fort Leavenworth, KS; her sister, Barbara White of Burlington, NC; brother-in-law, Ronnie Smith of Burlington, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her father, William H. Bray; her mother, Ethel M. Horne; her brother, William R. Bray; and sister, Betty Smith.

A memorial service in her honor will be held at noon ET Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 St. Mary's Street, Raleigh.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed at Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh by visiting: https://www.transitionslifecare.org/donate/.