In the early morning hours of July 12, 2024, heaven gained the sweetest angel. Marlene passed from her daughter’s arms into the arms of Jesus with those she loved so dearly and missed so much there to greet her.

Marlene was born on December 13, 1932 in Norfolk, VA. She graduated from Maury High School in 1951. She worked as a secretary to the presidents of Hartford Insurance, TVDC, and finally, Berkley Machine works until marrying in 1962. She then became a stay at home mom to her three stepchildren and later on two daughters.

She is predeceased by her parents, George John and Ossie Lue Fett; husband, Cecil Marlin “Red” Halsey, Sr.; brother, Ronald L. “Sonny” Fett; and her step-daughter, J. Kaye Halsey M.D.

She is survived by two stepsons who lovingly called her Mama, Cecil Marlin Halsey, Jr. (Sadie) and Kelly Eugene Halsey (Patricia); two daughters, Cecile M. Halsey, her caregiver, and Tara L. Savage; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and her cat, Sophie.

Marlene was an avid animal lover, always ready with a bowl of water and a pan of food for any animal in need. Her back door was known as a safe gathering place by the local animal population. Stray or not stray cats and dogs, squirrels, raccoons, possums, foxes, birds, and once even a monkey came daily.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to an animal charity of one’s choice.

Cremation Society of Virginia is assisting the family.