Marzelle Brinkley

Marzelle Brinkley, 86, of Drexel, NC died peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on Monday, July 16, 2012 following a period of declining health. Born January 19, 1926 in Burke County, she was a daughter of the late James William Bennett and Maude Cline Bennett. She was a lifelong resident of Burke County, and a devoted Christian member of Drexel First Church of God. She never met a stranger, and will be remembered fondly by all who met her. Marzelle worked as a beautician and later at Alba Waldesian. She was a wonderful cook, loved shopping, and trips to the beach.A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Marzelle is survived by her husband, James Guy Brinkley of the home; children, Melva B. Huffman and husband, Norman, Elaine B. Arrant and husband, W. B., and James Timothy Brinkley and wife, Annette, all of Drexel; grandchildren, Jaime A. Huffman, Kim A. Payne and husband, Randy, Melissa B. Churchill and husband, Kris, Kristy H. King and husband, Brad, Matt Barrier and wife, Brandi, Mark Barrier and wife, Kristen, Brent Brinkley and wife, Sommer, and Alycen Brinkley; and eleven great-grandchildren who adored her.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, Ruth Page, Zada Reece, Myrtle Penley, Cedrick Bennett, Gurden "Spud" Bennett, and Sudie Huss.Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 19, 2012 at Drexel First Church of God with Rev. Don Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday one hour before the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.