Reverend Dr. Marlene Louise Walters, age 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on June 11, 2026, in Florida. Marlene was born in Columbus, Ohio to Dorothy and Floyd Isenagle. She was predeceased by Thomas J. Walters, her loving spouse of 69 years, and granddaughter Megan, and is survived by daughters Debbie Chickadel (Joe), Becky Rafferty (Bud), and Carrie Sharp (Bill), six grandchildren Mike, Ben, Patty Wilkinson (Daryl), Kirsten Sharp (Cassidy), Julia Sharp (Cole), Evan Sharp (Cali) and four great grandchildren.

Marlene's love of education started at the Ohio State University. She was a true Buckeye fan and during her time at OSU was a member of the Tri Delta Sorority. She and Tom met in college and displayed their love and pride for OSU throughout their lives.

Marlene enjoyed being a mother and took great pride in raising her children. During this time, she remained active in her community. With an unwavering compassion for others, she volunteered for the American Red Cross, Junior League and Easter Seals. At the age of 41 she was called to the ministry and began her studies at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, during which time she worked as a chaplain at Wilmington General Hospital. After completing her Doctorate of Ministry in 1980 she served in the Wilmington, Delaware, area, first as Associate Minister at Grace United Methodist Church, then in 1983 was appointed Pastor of her own congregation at Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church, where she served for over 14 years.

Marlene was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, wrote 3 books (Virtual Grace, Through Stained Glass and A Crucifix), was Professor of Medical Ethics at Eastern College, Washington College and the Nursing School of Wilmington, and counseled countless people who benefitted from her compassionate care and guidance. Additionally, she initiated several support groups including Supporting K.I.D.D.S (Kids Involved in Death, Divorce and Separation), You're Not Alone, HOPING (Helping Other Parents In Normal Grieving), and FOSTER (Families of Suicide To Enable Recovering).

Marlene was an avid golfer, swimmer, reader, and writer. She and Tom spent many happy years boating on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and traveling the globe.

A memorial service for Marlene will take place at Freedom Pointe, 1550 El Camino Real, The Villages, Florida, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Light refreshments to follow.

Interment will be with her husband, Colonel Thomas J. Walters, U.S. Army Reserve (Ret.), at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Marlene Walters to Coastal Georgia Honor Flight, Inc, P.O Box 20466, St Simons Island, GA 31522 or Delaware Right to Life, P.O. Box 1222, Wilmington, DE 19899. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, where sentiments may be memorialized for the Family.