Marlene Morris, born December 23, 1936, passed away on October 6, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by loved ones at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis.

Marlene was a woman of remarkable strength, independence, and unwavering faith. Strong-willed and determined, she lived life on her own terms, never afraid to take charge or tackle a challenge herself. Her dedication and tireless work ethic were evident in the more than 50 years she spent working at China Grove Textiles Mill. That same determination carried into her personal life, where she took great pride in caring for her home. In her younger years, she maintained the lawn and beautiful flowerbeds, painted the porch and brick foundation, and tackled whatever else was needed to keep her home looking its best. Even after retirement, she was known to start a project on a whim, once pulling up the linoleum in her kitchen and bathroom simply because she wanted a change, and perhaps out of a little boredom.

Marlene was an accomplished home cook and baker whose efforts earned her numerous county fair awards. She was especially known for her made-from-scratch biscuits and chicken and dumplings, the latter earning her an invitation to a Charlotte restaurant to teach chefs how to prepare the family favorite. Every Christmas Eve, Marlene opened her home to family and friends, bringing everyone together for a celebration filled with love, laughter, and good food. Her chicken and dumplings, lovingly prepared from scratch each year, became a cherished tradition and a lasting reminder of the care she put into everything she did for those she loved.

Above all, Marlene loved her family fiercely. She cherished her friends and church family just as deeply, and her devotion to the Lord was central to her life. She had a wonderful sense of humor and found joy in life's simple pleasures, including trips to the beach, tackling the most difficult puzzles her loved ones could find for her, which she always managed to complete, and caring for animals. She had a special place in her heart for the family's animals, past and present, including her beloved cats, Missy and Prince, and her “grandpuppies”, Monkey Butt, Stasio, Rosie, and Max. Marlene never missed an opportunity to show an animal affection, especially if it meant sneaking them a little extra food, regardless of whether they needed it or were supposed to have it.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Craig and Pearl Morris; sisters, Shirley Harkey and Carlene Morton; half-siblings, Marie Simcox, Keith Brooks, Dorothy Hill, and Roy Brooks; and her beloved sons, Roger "RC" Foster and Dale Pruett.

She is survived by her daughter, Frankie Pruett; daughter-in-law, Brenda Foster; grandson, Jeffrey Bostian and his wife, McKenzie; great-granddaughter, Poppi Bostian; and her beloved cats, Missy and Prince, who have found a loving home.

Those who knew Marlene will remember her immense strength, sense of humor, steadfast faith, and deep love for those around her. Though her place at the Christmas Eve table will now be empty, the traditions she created, the memories she made, and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Whitley's Funeral Home, 1748 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Mark Murphy of Grace City Church officiating.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Niyyah, Tawanna, Wynter, and Kelly, who began as neighbors but became family through the love and care they provided Marlene in her time of need; to Michelle Erwin, who was already family through friendship and devoted so much of her time to caring for Marlene; and to the many friends and members of her church family who surrounded her with love and support in her final months.