Marla Jean Kent

Born to Clara Nadine and Ralph Herman, Marla grew up in Maple Valley, Washington with her brother Russ and their family's 2 St. Bernards.

Marla attended Tahoma High School, graduating in 1958 and went on to Seattle Pacific University earning a B.A. in Education with a major in English and a minor in French in 1962.

Marla was employed by the Shoreline School District as an elementary teacher. After her children were born, she chose to stay home during their formative years and returned to work as a judicial assistant for Washington County Courthouse in Hillsboro, Oregon.

It is difficult to describe Marla in one word. She was strong, resilient, funny, smart, beautiful, loving, kind, classy and generous. She touched the hearts of everyone she encountered. She enjoyed gardening, hummingbirds, cooking, baking, antique shopping, walking, DOGS (!!) and above all else, her family.

Marla married Marvin Garland in 2001 and together they enjoyed a rich life in their community in Hillsboro, Oregon. And on most Tuesdays you could find them at the Hillsboro Tuesday Market.

Marla is survived by her husband, Marvin Garland; her daughter, Dana Kwong; her son, Joel Kent; her sister, Keri Dawson and her grandchildren.

Marla is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Russ Herman.

A Visitation will be held at 11AM on Friday, February 13, 2026 in the Skyline Chapel. Light fare is available to guests in the adjoining room to the Chapel. The Funeral Service with begin at 12PM at Skyline Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 4101 NW Skyline Blvd, Portland, Oregon followed by a graveside service at Skyline Cemetery.