Marlene Joyce Swanson

Marlene Joyce Swanson, age 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Coweta, OK, on Monday morning, July 1, 2024. She was born on April 7, 1937, in Tulsa, OK to Marvin James and Lorene Ines (Millikan) Summey. Marlene's life was a testament to her unwavering faith, her commitment to her family, and her passion for the simple joys of life.

She attended Springdale Elementary, Cleveland Jr. High, and graduated from Central High School in 1955. Marlene's educational pursuits reflected her love for beauty and her desire to create a warm and inviting home, leading her to attend classes in Interior Design and Gardening.

On May 19, 1956, Marlene married the love of her life, Ben Swanson, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Their union was blessed with three children: Deborah, David, and Kerry. Marlene's role as a devoted homemaker was her pride and joy. She also shared her talents with others through wedding consulting, showcasing her eye for elegance and detail.

Marlene's faith was the cornerstone of her life. Baptized in her early teens, she was a devout Christian who not only practiced her faith but also taught it, guiding many through Sunday School at First Baptist Church in Coweta. Her commitment to her church community was unwavering, and she was a cherished member of the congregation.

Her talents were many, and she excelled as an excellent cook, an expert seamstress, and a master gardener. Marlene's love for gardening was not just a hobby but a way of life, as she found joy in canning the fruits of her labor. She was also a proud Bluestar grandmother, supporting her family and others with loved ones in military service.

Marlene's legacy is carried on by her loving husband of 68 years, Ben Swanson of the home in Coweta, OK; her daughter, Deborah Berry and her husband Mac of Grove, OK; her sons, David Swanson and his wife Robin of Omaha, TX, and Kerry Swanson and his wife Sheilah of Huntsville, AR; her five grandchildren, Zachary Swanson (Maranda), Gabral Swanson (Tia), Ahna Swanson, Kerrah Drake (Josh), and Jacob Swanson (Jennifer); and a host of other relatives and friends who were blessed to know her.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Lorene Summey; her brother, Jim Summey; and her grandson, Joshua Swanson.

Visitation for Marlene Joyce Swanson will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 AM on Friday, July 5, 2024, at the First Baptist Church in Coweta, OK. A service celebrating her life will follow at 11:00 AM, with Dr. Vern Charette officiating. Marlene will be laid to rest at Haskell Cemetery in Haskell, OK.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Marlene to the John 3:16 Mission, https://john316mission.org/givenow/.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family has entrusted Marlene's care and services to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.