Ila Marlene Acklin was born in Pittsburgh, PA on August 31, 1938. She was the only child of Lloyd and Marian Durbin, also of PA. Marlene entered fully into the presence of the Lord on Monday, January 10, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, John Ross Acklin. She was a loving mother to her daughter, Peggy Longshore, mother-in-law to Frank Longshore, and grandmother to Emily Marner and Nathan Longshore. Marlene was a wonderful homemaker. She enjoyed cooking and hosting people from all walks of life. Her hospitality and generosity expressed the love of Christ and made a lasting impact on many. If you didn't find her in the kitchen, she was likely in the garden. The flowers she grew were always beautiful. She had a way with plants that she inherited from her mother. Marlene's caring nature and love for Jesus will never be forgotten. She is greatly missed, but we celebrate that she is whole again as she rests in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ. In lieu of flowers, we ask any donations go to the Gideons International memorials. Marlene was an active member of the Gideons Women's Auxiliary. Their motto was, "The auxiliary on their knees keeps the Gideons on their feet." Funeral services will be conducted by the Rev. Matthew Coplin at 11 AM on Thursday, January 13,2022 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Chapin. Interment will take place at a later date in Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. Memories and messages may be shared with the family here on her tribute page.