Laura Aletha Marlin

January 6, 1940 - April 16, 2026

Laura Aletha Marlin went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 16, 2026. She left her earthly home in Genoa, surrounded by her loving family, as she entered fully into the arms of Jesus. Aletha’s smile is brighter than it has ever been, and she has taken her place in the heavenly choir, singing her favorite hymns in glory.
Aletha was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Marlin; her son, Richard Marlin; four sisters; one brother; and a grandson, Bobby Easley, Jr.

Her legacy includes three daughters; one son-in-law; two sons; and two daughters-in-law: Cheral Easley of Fouke, AR; Curtis and Carol Mudford of Fouke, AR; Patti Charlton of Genoa, AR; James and Myra Marlin of Goodwell, OK; and Steven and Kristie Marlin of Texarkana, TX. She is also survived by one sister, Bobbie Bocox of Hope, AR; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews and countless friends.

Aletha, 86, was born on January 6, 1940, and was deeply loved and loved deeply. She and Henry, the love of her life for 56 years, spent their lives growing and loving their family in the best way they knew how—with everything they had. Though they lived in many different states over the years, they spent the greater part of their lives in Genoa, AR, where they watched their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and, for Aletha, great-great-grandchildren grow and thrive.

She loved spending time visiting with her family and took great pride in each one. Not much wall space remained in her home, as it was filled with pictures of treasured moments she proudly displayed. One thing was always true—every “kid” knew they could show up at any time, and “Grandma” would be ready with a good meal or snacks, a listening ear, and the very best hugs. It has often been said that she made the best banana pudding this side of the Mississippi.

Aletha loved both gently and fiercely. She served as a custodian at Genoa Central Middle School for many years. She did more than create a clean space—she brought a warm smile and a helping hand to the hallways and classrooms every day for students, teachers, and parents alike. She was also a faithful member of Macedonia Baptist Church, remaining devoted even in the days before her illness. She loved Jesus and faithfully served her church throughout her life.

One of Aletha’s favorite things in life was being with the people she loved most. As the family celebrates the life of this gentle and loving woman, they invite you to join them for visitation on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Macedonia Baptist Church at 12:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Bro. Josh Mudford and Bro. Todd Lawrence. Burial will follow at Rocky Mound Cemetery under the direction of Texarkana Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Dierksen Hospice for the compassionate care given to their mother in her final days, especially Samantha, Sonia, and Mandy. They are especially grateful for her very special granddaughter, whose Christ-like compassion, gentle hands, and faithful care were a beautiful reflection of the love that surrounded her in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor her life by making a donation to Fearfully and Wonderfully Made (checks may be mailed in her memory to 4303 Texas Blvd, Suite 2, Texarkana, TX), a cause close to her heart.

(Published by Texarkana Funeral Home, April 2026)