May 9, 2026, 92, Goldsboro – Marlene Pate Bartlett, 92, peacefully went home to be with her Lord early Saturday morning at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Wayne County on May 7, 1934, Marlene was the daughter of the late Johnny Edward Pate and Margaret West Pate. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, Newton Gerald Bartlett; her son, Doug Bartlett; her brother, Charles C. Pate; and her sister, Peggy Pate Howell.
Marlene was a devoted Christian wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and faithful servant of God whose life reflected love, kindness, and unwavering faith. She created a warm and nurturing home for her six children, teaching them by both word and example the value of hard work, integrity, and dedication to the Lord’s service. Her influence as a Godly mother and spiritual example will continue through generations of her family.
In addition to faithfully caring for her family, Marlene touched many lives through her work as a special education teacher’s assistant with Wayne County Public Schools for many years. Her gentle spirit, patience, and caring heart made a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families.
Faith was the foundation of Marlene’s life. She first worshiped with the congregation of Oak Street Pentecostal Holiness Church and later continued faithfully at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church. Under the ministry of Bishop Jim Whitfield, she faithfully served as the church’s financial secretary until her retirement. Marlene was also a devoted member of the Tuesday Morning Prayer Group, faithfully lifting up the needs of the church, its ministries, and its people in prayer.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the church narthex of The First Pentecostal Holiness Church followed by a service to celebrate Marlene’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Bill Rose and Pastor Danny Rollins officiating. Interment will be on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park.
Marlene is survived by her children, Gerald Bartlett and wife, Darlene; Charles Bartlett and wife, Diane; Jeff Bartlett and wife, Connie; Kevin Bartlett; and Melissa B. Harris and husband, Barry. She also leaves behind her cherished daughter-in-law, Anne Lee Bartlett; grandchildren: Judith Gray and husband, David, Amy Marie Bartlett, Amy Bartlett Rich and husband, Corey, Michael Bartlett and wife, Leslie, Matt Bartlett and wife, Leigh Ann, Lauren Bartlett, Devin Eubanks and wife, Kristal, and Ian Eubanks; along with her beloved great-grandchildren, Braxton, Audrey, Christopher, Emmi, Mary Lynn, Landon, Ashton, Cruz, Elisha, and Emma Lynn.
Though her family grieves her earthly absence, they rejoice in the assurance that she is now resting in the presence of her Savior whom she loved and served so faithfully throughout her life.
Memorial contributions may be made in Marlene’s memory to The First Pentecostal Holiness Church for the Generations Center, 1100 The First Church Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
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