Mariarlena Francis, 80, of Harrisonburg, passed away on Sunday November 24, 2024 at Blue Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation in Harrisonburg.

Miss Francis was born on July 10, 1944 in Harrisonburg, and was a daughter of the late Kent Walter and Frances (Stuart) Francis. She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Harrisonburg. Miss Francis worked in food service as a cook for many years in the Harrisonburg area. She also operated a beauty shop from her home. Mariarlena enjoyed sitting on her front porch with an ice-cold Coca-Cola. She had an amazing sense of humor and was beloved by all who knew her.

Mariarlena is survived by a sister, Patricia Jean Francis of Harrisonburg; a nephew, Eddie Bailey and wife Kelly of Silver Spring, MD; a special cousin, Patricia Dickerson; numerous cousins; and many special friends who will miss her greatly.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 29, 2024 from 5 until 7 PM at the Kyger Funeral Home in Harrisonburg.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 10 AM at the funeral home with Pastor Mia Blakey officiating. Burial will follow at Newtown Cemetery in Harrisonburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests all memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741; or by visiting https://donate.cancer.org/