Marlene F. Edwards, 89, of Shelbyville, IN was promoted to glory on May 27, 2026.
She was born November 13, 1936, in Jeannette PA the daughter of William Henry Edwards and Jessie Bell (Nedley) Edwards.
Marlene is survived by a sister, Shirley (Robert) McDonald of FL; sister-in-law, “Mert” Edwards of Indianapolis, IN; niece, Kathryn Edwards of Clifton, IL; great niece, Chrissy (Ben) Peck of Mooresville, IN; three great-nephews, Brad Welbourne of Frankfort, IN, Zach (Sara) Edwards of Williamsport, IN and Danny Dixon of Clifton IL; Marlene is also survived by friend and caregiver, Shannon Benner of Shelbyville, IN and several great-great nephews and niece.
Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; twin sisters at 1 day old; brother, William (Bill) Charles Edward Sr.; nephews, William (Billy) Charles Edwards and Scott McDonald and dogs, Lady and Sadie.
Marlene attended Transylvania Bible School in Freeport, PA from 1957-1959 and then attended God’s Bible School in Cincinnati, OH graduating May 19, 1962 with a Bachelors in Theology. She was a member of the Salvation Army. While serving as corps sergeant major in Lafayette, IN Salvation Army. Marlene was called by God to serve in the mission field. Marlene served in Papua New Guinea 1978-1981 as a printer. She learned to speak Pidgin English as well as the native tongue of the Papuan people. In 1982 she transferred to the Philippines and used her gifts of printing and teaching for 12 years. In 1994 she returned state side for furlough and underwent treatment for breast cancer.
Marlene served as associate corps officer for the Anderson Salvation Army 1994-1995 and then was transferred to the Shelbyville Salvation Army serving before retiring. In retirement, Marlene loved to spend time with her dogs, family, friends, gardening, puzzle books, Bible studies and preaching and teaching.
Visitation will be Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 5 pm to 8 pm at Murphy-Parks Funeral Service, 703 S. Harrison Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176.
A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Evangelical United Methodist Church, 267 E. Washington St., Shelbyville, IN 46176 with Shannon Benner officiating.
Funeral Directors, Greg Parks, Sheila Parks and Stuart Parks are honored to serve Marlene’s family.
Memorial contributions may be given to Sunshine House, P.O. Box 111, Shelbyville, IN 46176.
Online condolences may be shared at www.murphyparks.com.
