Marlena East

Marlena East, born on September 18, 1938, in Dailey, West Virginia, passed away peacefully in Louisville, Kentucky, on March 17, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to both her family and the natural world. As an avid self-employed artist, Marlena channeled her free spirit into her work, creating pieces that embodied her love for nature and conservation.

A proud attendee of Louisville Arts College, Marlena's artistic journey was interwoven with her deep-rooted beliefs about the importance of protecting the environment. She was a great advocate for nature, with a personality that was dedicated, creative, and kind. Friends and family fondly recall her steadfastness in her convictions and her remarkable ability to inspire those around her to appreciate the beauty of the world.

Marlena cherished her time spent with family and friends, always finding joy in their company. Her greatest accomplishment, one she held close to her heart, was watching her family grow. She is survived by her loving daughters, Rebecca M. Johnson and Naida Razor, as well as her adoring grandsons, Ian (Nancy Bird) Johnson and Jacob Johnson. Each of them carries forward her spirit of creativity and love for the environment.

Marlena was predeceased by her husband, William East; her devoted parents, Irvin and Marjorie M. Groves, who undoubtedly inspired her early passions and values; her son, Anthony Razor; and her sister Margie Clark, each of them shared a special place in her heart. 

We invite you to honor her memory during the visitation set for March 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Bardstown Road Presbyterian Church, located at 1722 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY. Marlena will be laid to rest with grace and dignity in Saint Michael Cemetery following the service.

While her physical presence will be deeply missed, Marlena East's creative spirit and unwavering dedication to her family and the conservation of nature will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.