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Following eight decades of unyielding love for her family, and fortitude through life’s challenges, Helen Marlene Connolly passed away on April 27, 2025 with loved ones by her side as she listened to a favourite song by Patsy Cline. Marlene joins in Heaven her husband Beverly Connolly, and children Melody Durley nee James (John) and Rob James.
Marlene is survived by family Craig Connolly (Marika), Kyle Connolly (Jodi), Lisa Hennessy (Mark); Grandchildren Holly Huggett (Aaron) and Tayler Bergeron (Dan), Brianna Connolly and Sebastien Connolly; and Great-grandchildren Jesse Huggett, Cohen Huggett, Archer Bergeron, and Axel Bergeron.
Predeceased by parents Alec and Marguerite Gilroy, and siblings Geri Brooks (Kenny), Verna Gilroy, Larry Gilroy, and Doug Whitlock. Predeceased by her first husband Philip James.
Marlene was known for her easy nature, warm kindness, and cherished relationships with children and grandchildren with whom she loved to spend time. In addition to the lasting relationships and generations she touched, her gift as a nurturer showed through gardening, including multi-generational Peony flowers she cultivated and transplanted through 4 generations. Each year as they bloom on her birthday they will serve as a reminder of the legacy Marlene leaves behind.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. with visitation held one hour prior from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die” – Thomas Campbell