Marlene Bridges Smith was born on Thursday, July 25, 1963 to Irene Bridges and the late James Allen "Jimmy" Mitchell. She was raised in Brooklyn, N.Y. and began P.S. 3 just across the street from her home.  At a very early age, Marlene exhibited a love for the arts. Consequently, she attended the Brooklyn School of the Arts, where she excelled in dance. In 1977, at the start of high school, Marlene relocated to Waynesboro, Georgia, with her sister who was a teacher at Waynesboro High School. Marlene worked tirelessly alongside her sister to choreograph various routines and aided in composing the school's first Dance Recital featuring ballet, jazz, tap, modern and African dance.  In 1979, Marlene returned to Brooklyn to complete high school alongside childhood friends. She graduated from high school in 1981.

Marlene married Private First Class Ronald Smith In 1983. Following their holy union, she joined him in Junction City, Kansas, where he was stationed in the U.S. Army to begin their life together. Tragically, this union was cut short as the couple was involved in an accident which proved fatal for Ron.

Marlene lived a fruitful life and knew no limitations. She was peaceful by nature, but would put matters in perspective with ease. She was very giving and expected nothing in return. Marlene was loving, dedicated to the care of her mother and was a fountain of support for her family.  She loved her sons immensely and was an active participant in their Parent Teacher Associations for over fifteen years.  Similarly, Marlene held a deep love for her community. She served as coach of the Paul Robeson High School "Thrillers "Drill Team for many years and would assist with decorating the entire floor of her building for Christmas! She was also an advocate for voters rights, faithfully working at various voting precincts across Brooklyn, NY during local, state, and national elections.

Marlene worked in the Manhattan Film and Fashion Industry for many years where she met numerous actors, models, designers, athletes and filmmakers. She also staffed festivities of the coveted New York Fashion Week and the Brooklyn Fashion Week annually. She was an active member of the Screen Actors Guild.

Marlene peacefully entered into eternal rest at Brooklyn Hospital on Friday, May 17, 2024. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and was a woman of faith that loved the Lord.

She is predeceased by her husband and father. Brother:  Hebert Lee Mitchell. Aunts: Connie Mitchell Brown, Lena Mae Mitchell, Annie J. Matthews, Josephine Bridges, Rose Dobbs, Iola Bridges, Mae Bridges. Uncles: Willie B. Bridges, George Bridges, Jr. and O'Daniel Bridges.

Marlene leaves to cherish fond memories, her beloved mother, Irene Bridges, Two sons:  Percyell Smith,  Dominique Smith and her lifelong companion, Curtis Harvin of the home. Sisters:  Annette Bridges Twine, Brooklyn, N.Y. and  Rev. Dr. Edith E. Bridges, Bennettsville, S.C. Nieces:  Anita  B. Bridges and Shavon  Bridges, Brooklyn, N.Y.;Hazel A. Bridges, Esq. Atlanta, GA. Tabitha Smith and Penny Smith of New York. Nephews:  Rasheen Twine and Bennie Smith, Jr. of Brooklyn, N.Y.  Great-aunts: Ophelia Richardson and Ethel Lee Bruce, Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother-in-laws: Bennie (Renee) Smith, Ronnie Smith, Anthony Smith and Adale Smith of New York. Sister -in- law: Othella Smith of New York.  Special cousins: George Bridges, III, Elinda Dobbs Williams and Michael Bridges of New York as well as a host of other