Marlene Hambright

Marlene Kay (Clubb) Hambright of Vicksburg, MI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Born on March 2, 1940, in Bedford, IN, Marlene was the cherished daughter of Perl Clubb and Clara (Dalton) Clark. She lived a life full of love, warmth, and kindness, leaving a legacy of treasured memories and traditions for all who knew her.

Marlene married Alvin Hambright Sr., the love of her life, on June 2, 1956 in Vicksburg, beginning a beautiful journey together that lasted until Alvin’s passing on March 23, 1985. The two shared their lives in Portage and later fulfilled their dream by building a home in Vicksburg. They raised three children: Cindy L. Smith (Mark), Alvin Lee Hambright Jr. (Betty), and Edward Hambright (Theresa), who brought immense pride and joy to Marlene's life.

She is also lovingly remembered by her six grandchildren—Eric Smith (Jody Maloney), Scott Smith (Andrea Corpolongo), Stacy Kay Smith (Seth Reedy), Brandon Hambright (Chelsea), Jared Hambright (Chrissy), and Levi Hambright—and her ten great-grandchildren, each of whom was a light in her life.

On August 22, 1987, Marlene married Phillip Newkirk. They made their home in Greenville, MI, and enjoyed traveling within the US and Canada. In her later years, Marlene moved to Ludington, MI, where she continued to spread joy with her friendly spirit.

Marlene’s work as a Patient Attendant at the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital from 1969 to 1984 allowed her to form lifelong bonds with her fellow attendants and those she cared for. Her compassion and dedication left a lasting impact on her colleagues and patients alike.

Known for her incredible cooking and baking, Marlene delighted family and friends with her famous lemon meringue pies, banana bread, and fudge. Whirligigs for deer season and fresh cookies after school became beloved family traditions. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren, especially on birthdays, often treating them to shopping and lunch to make each occasion extra special.

Marlene enjoyed traveling, camping, and listening to country music, sharing her love for these simple pleasures with those she loved. She had a great sense of humor, her door was always open, her smile warm, and her heart welcoming to all.

Marlene is preceded in death by her husband Alvin Hambright Sr., son Alvin Hambright Jr., second husband Phillip Newkirk, father Perl Clubb, mother Clara (Dalton) Clark, brother Chuck Clark, and brother Larry Clubb.

Memorials made in Marlene’s memory may be directed to Toys for Tots or and charity of your own choice.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Marlene's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Hambright family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.