Marlene Rike

Marlene Louise (Childers) Rike, 90, of Southport (Boiling Spring Lakes), NC passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025. Born on March 20, 1934, in Point Pleasant, WV, to Audrey (Stone) Childers and William “Red” Childers. Marlene spent much of her childhood in Sidney, OH.

Marlene is survived by her daughter, Jennie (Brandewie) Rogers (Tony) of Winnabow, NC; her son John Brandewie (Cindy) of Athens, OH; and one sister Grayce Swope of Arlington, TX. She cherished her nine grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Carl Rike; stepson Fred Brandewie; sister Jean Crilley; and brothers Clifford and Kenneth Childers.

A loving mother, Marlene raised her children with first husband, Frederick “Fritz” Brandewie in Sidney, OH. During this time, she worked at The Spot restaurant and managed Monarch Cleaners.

Marlene will be fondly remembered by her many talents and warm personality. She found joy in sewing, gardening, cooking and baking. Her homemade Christmas candy was a treasured tradition, eagerly anticipated and enjoyed by her family and friends each year. Her love for storytelling, her vibrant smile, and her infectious laughter left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Liberty Home Care, Liberty Hospice, and Brunswick Cove Living Center for the exceptional care, love and compassion they provided during Marlene’s last year.

A celebration of life will be held in Southport on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 11:00 am, with a service by Peacock, Newman & White Funeral Home with Reverend Raymond Wood officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. A graveside service will follow at Cape Fear Memorial Park. Afterward, family and friends are invited to gather at Marlene’s favorite restaurant, San Felipe’s, located at 5034 Southport Crossing Way.

Pallbearers will be, Eli Burnside, Clayton Burnside, Isaiah Burnside, Skyler Boykin, Felix Cooper and Matthew Woodall.

Marlene’s kindness, love, and remarkable legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

You may offer online condolences at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.