Marlene "Mamalene" Hayes lived to be 87 years old and in those years, she exemplified what it meant to be a leader and a servant; a loyal friend, companion, and community member; a generous spirit; a support to so many; and a pillar of strength and humility.

Marlene was born December 12, 1936. She was the daughter of Wilton and Ora Strange. She grew up and built a life in Henderson, NC with her husband, James "PeeWee" Hayes. She worked for Sprint for 44 years as an operator, clerk, and facility assigner. They built a home together on Lynne Ave in the 1960s, where sounds of her piano playing and singing resounded. Though her and PeeWee had no children of their own, she used to say, "God had a plan. This way I can do more for lots of children." Her nieces, Valerie and Elizabeth, were benefactors of her generosity and support throughout their lives. "Mamalene", as they called her, was at all of their school and sport performances, saved every newspaper article with a mention of their name, and was a staple figure at all holiday events, never missing a holiday or birthday. As much as she tried to get them in dresses and bows (with resulting bickering no doubt), she loved them as they were and always let them know that. Her great-nephew and niece, Bronson and Mavis Fox, also benefitted from her everlasting spunk and energy through their games and shared time together. She was also Godmother to three special people: Charles Ray Ayscue, Libby Roberts, and Edward Burleson.

She was a member of Harriett Baptist Church since its inception. She began playing the piano at Harriett Baptist when she was only 14 years old and never stopped. She served as the Music Director and Treasurer for decades, was part of the building committee, was the only Deaconess of the church, and led countless cantatas that filled the church with energy and spirit. Her piano playing was acclaimed throughout Henderson and she used her talents selflessly and without hesitation. Her music served to bring joy in times of celebration and peace and comfort in times of grief. She was dedicated and passionate about her work and always strove to make it the best it could be. She also volunteered with the Sprint Volunteer Steering Committee, A.C.T.S, and at Kerr Lake Nursing Home. She played for the nursing home residents once a month and for special events.

Though many loved ones have gone before her, including her mother and father (Ora and Wilton Strange), her husband ("PeeWee"), and her brother (Tim "Timmy" Strange), and many lifelong friends, she leaves behind those who will continue to feel the gap that she leaves in this world: her sister-in-law (Bonny Strange), nieces and their family (Elizabeth Strange, Kyle and Valerie Fox with Bronson and Mavis), a cousin/ "sister" (Pat Pegram) and her family (Buster and Libby, Charles Ray and his family, Hillary and Dustin and their family.

Some refer to the "dash", the space between the beginning and end of one's life, as what truly matters. Marlene Hayes' dash was strong and her impact has rippled through so many lives and will continue to do so. What more could you ask for in a life.

A funeral service of remembrance will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 2 pm, at Harriett Baptist Church, 1354 Ruin Creek Road, Henderson conducted by Pastor Will Breedlove. Burial will follow at Sunset Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service, from 1-2 pm.

Flowers are welcome. Gifts of love and remembrance can be sent to Harriett Baptist Church in memory of Marlene Hayes.

Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Henderson. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com