Marlene Jane Perrin
Marlene Jane Perrin (née Hymers), known to many as “Marnie,” passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, at the age of 80 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she had lived for the past 37 years.
She was born on October 29, 1945, in St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada, to Melville “Mel” Edwin Hymers and Madeline Irene Hymers (née Cook). She was raised in London, Ontario, alongside her younger twin sisters, Judith Lynn and Jacqueline “Jackie” Lee (1949–1988).
Marlene graduated as valedictorian from Clarke Road Secondary School in 1964. She then attended the University of Western Ontario, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1967. That same year, she married William “Bill” Harold Perrin, and the couple moved to Florida, where she pursued graduate studies at the University of Florida.
After dedicating many years to raising her children, Marlene built a meaningful career that included 24 years as an ESL (English as a Second Language) instructor. She retired in 2024. Teaching was more than a profession to her—it was a calling. She was deeply devoted to her students and consistently went above and beyond to support their growth and success.
A lifelong lover of classical music, Marlene expressed her passion through the piano. Beginning in her high school and college years, she served as a piano and organ accompanist in local churches, sharing her gift of music with her community. She continued to play throughout her life. She also found great joy in flowers, plants, and gardening.
Above all, Marlene’s greatest joy was her family. Her children and grandchildren were at the center of her life, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments. She celebrated each of their milestones and encouraged them to pursue their interests, strive for excellence, and embrace new opportunities.
She is survived by her children: Renée (Gary) Nugent, Laura (John) Graner, Michael “Mike” (Melissa “Missy”) Perrin, Chris (Veronica) Perrin, and Tammy (Sarah) Perrin. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Jordan, Jennica, Jayna, Cayla, Kyle (Trista), Julia (Gavin), Megan, Autumn, Austin, and Lily; two great-grandchildren; and her sister, Judith Gauthier (née Hymers).
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 9, at the Churchville Nature Center (501 Churchville Ln, Churchville, PA 18966) at 1pm. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Post-Polio Health International (post-polio.org) or the American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org).
Mike, so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. She had to be a very nice person. Also sending their condolences to you are many of our family members.
John and Laura Graner are a part of our church in Knoxville TN. We are praying for the entire family to be comforted by God during this difficult time. Jesus is as close as the mention of His name and He loves each and every one of you.
I’m so sorry to hear about your mom, my heart really goes out to you. I'm sure she was an incredible woman, and I know how much she meant to you. I’m here for you anytime, for anything at all.
I’m so sorry to hear about your mom, my heart really goes out to you. I’m sure she was an incredible woman, and I know how much she meant to you. I’m here for you anytime, for anything at all.
John and Laura Graner are a part of our church in Knoxville TN. We are praying for the entire family to be comforted by God during this difficult time. Jesus is as close as the mention of His name and He loves each and every one of you.
Mike, so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. She had to be a very nice person. Also sending their condolences to you are many of our family members.