Marlene Joy Fondren, 88, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Marlene is lovingly remembered by her children, all of Wichita: Tamara (Steven) Barnes, Gary Marsh, and Michelle (Mike) Turner. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Johonna (Amar), Dalton (Angela), Devehn (Caila), Brianna (Buny), and Addison; great-grandchildren Genevieve, Dublin, Hattie, and Tennley; and great-great-grandson Theo. She is also survived by her sister Wanda Van Zandt of Ft. Worth, Texas and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bob" E. Fondren; her son Jeffery A. Fondren; her parents Theo and Hattie Callison; and siblings Bill, Elaine, and Tim.

Born in Wichita, Marlene graduated from West High School. She was kind, had a zest for life, a wonderful sense of humor, a vibrant spirit, and loved by many and all. Her irresistible laugh was contagious and brought joy to all who knew her. She had a deep love for nature and was passionate about gardening, creating some of the most beautiful flower beds in the Midwest.

An animal lover at heart, Marlene welcomed many furry companions into her life, even a skunk. She held a special fondness for wildlife including birds, ducks, butterflies, elephants, and giraffes.

Marlene was a talented pianist with a beautiful singing voice; she was often found tapping her feet and singing along to her favorite songs, especially Christmas music.

A private celebration will be held to honor Marlene's life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Marlene's memory to a charity of their choice.

A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam, and for a brief moment, it's glory and beauty belong to our world. But, then it flies on again. And though we wish it could have stayed, we feel so lucky to have seen it. - author unknown.