Ellen Marleen Henderson

Born in San Diego, California, to parents Ralph and Mabel Lou Kirk Hansard, Marleen grew up with a deep love for the Lord, family, and the simple joys of life. As a child she lived in Panama making lifelong memories. She met her husband, Donald Henderson, through a friend in Chapel Hill in 1975, and they married the following year. Together they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, hard work, and unwavering devotion to one another for 50 years until Don’s passing in 2025.

Marleen was a devoted homemaker, a talented gardener, and an extraordinary cook whose homemade biscuits and Sunday roasts became legendary in the family. She was also a dedicated colleague at Windshield Glass and Sears Credit before retirement. She found her greatest joy in raising her three children—Steve, Kimberlee, and Dawn—and later spoiling her six grandchildren: D.J, Robbie Jr., Zach, Michael, Angela and Justin. Her home was always open, her tea pitcher never empty, and her hugs were the best medicine.

She had a quiet strength and a gentle spirit that touched everyone she met. Whether tending her beloved flower garden, singing hymns in the church, or staying up late to get a head start cooking for a holiday dinner, Marleen lived with grace, kindness, and deep faith. She taught her family the importance of honesty, hard work, and treating others with compassion.

Marleen is survived by her children: Steve Heatherly (wife Rose) of Tallahassee, FL and Dawn Heatherly of Greensboro, NC. Grandchildren: DJ, Robbie Jr, Zach, Michael, Angela, and Justin. She was preceded in death by her husband Don, her parents, and her daughter Kimberlee.

A celebration of Marleen’s life will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. The service will be at Lakeview Memorial Park in Greensboro, with Pastor Steve King officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests with gratitude that donations be made in Marleen’s memory to AuthoraCare Hospice, 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405.

Marleen’s legacy of love, faith, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.