***Mask wearing will be required at the Viewing/Visitation at Renaissance and during the Funeral Service at Mount Vernon Baptist Church

Frances Marlene Wilkins Rose, 84, departed this life on August 24, 2021, to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Marlene was a committed Christian, and a member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church of Raleigh. Growing up, she and her siblings could often be found singing, both in church and at community events. She had an angelic voice, and everything about her will be missed.

Marlene was born to Wade and Leone Wilkins in Clayton, NC. As the oldest of seven children, she would be the very first to tell you that she was the boss. A leader in every way, Marlene excelled in business. As a graduate of Hardbarger Business College, she used her skills to open BenLeMa Children's Clothing Store, which she successfully operated for over thirty years. In addition, she also developed her own children’s clothing line, Francine. After she retired in 2002, she wrote a semi- autobiographical book, entitled “Seven No More”.

Marlene loved beautiful things, from her extensive collection of Waterford Crystal, to her "church-hat" collection. Most of all though, Marlene loved her family. In short, Marlene accomplished everything that she wanted to do in life, from being a mom, running a business, and to traveling with her beloved Levy. She truly exemplified the motto of following one’s dreams.

Marlene is survived by her adoring husband of almost 62 years, Levy; her son, Ben (Brenda); her granddaughter, Anna; and her cat, Duchess. She is also survived by her siblings, Cecil Wilkins (Billie Sherrill), Dr. E. Brooks Wilkins (Darlene), Sue McCafferty, Judy Brewer (Richard), and the late Arlene Moody and Diane Johnson. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to her entire medical team, including Cardiologist, Dr. Frances Wood, and all the amazing staff at WakeMed Cardiothoracic ICU, including all the nurses who cared not only for Marlene, but for her family with such kindness and compassion.

A Viewing and Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615. Funeral Services will be held at Mount Vernon Baptist Church on Falls of the Neuse Road on Thursday, September 2, 2021, at 2pm. A brief graveside service will follow at Mount Vernon Baptist Church Cemetery-Durant Road. ***Mask wearing will be required at the Viewing/Visitation at Renaissance and during the Funeral Service at Mount Vernon Baptist Church