Marion Elease Wilkins

Marion Elease Cobb was born June 6, 1933 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Andrew and Louise (Furr) Cobb.

She grew up in the city of Bessemer and was educated in Bessemer Public School System and graduated from Dunbar High School in 1951.

She is preceded in death by her parents and daughters: Lynn Spurling, Joyce A. Spurling, and Tracy L. Washington.

In May of 1952, Elease relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana and joined South Calvary Baptist Church, under leadership of Rev. Leonard Manuel before taking roots at Church of the Living God Temple #18 under Bishop James C. Hawkins Jr, where she remained a faithful member. Her faithfulness led her to yield herself servant to the Adult Usher Board, holding the position of 4th District president, Pastor's Aid Chairperson, and her favorite: bus ministry. 

On December 14, 1952, Elease was united in matrimony with Logan Spurling until his death in 1963. To this union five daughters were born. Elease married Hubert Hendon in 1967 and to this union one daughter was born. A life rich in experience and heartfelt connections, in 1977 Elease wed Roosevelt Wilkins until his death in 1982. 

Elease wa employed in many places including: Frisch's Big Boy, L.S. Ayers, and the United States Postal Service form which she retired after 27 years and 8 months; through her service, receiving many letters of recognition and appreciation, her tireless commitment to those around her, an extension of a heart that was as diligent in the workplace as it was in personal relationships. 

Elease was also a Volunteer driver for the Red Cross, which mentioned previously she had great love for. She as a Blue Bird leader as well as past president and treasurer of the Indianapolis chapter of Internationals Training IN Communication-(ITC), formerly International Toastmistress Club. She was the Tiara Club president in 1988 and has won 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in the "Tiara Speech" Contest. 

Beyond her professional accomplishments and her steadfast commitment to the community, Elease found solace and joy in the simple pleasures that enriched her life such as avidly reading her favorite author, Danielle Steel or bowling. Not content to leave her would defined solely by the joys of reading and bowling, Elease ventured further. She found an equally profound sense of fulfillment in traveling-expanding her horizons with every ticket stamped! Her love for travel enriched her life with colorful encounters and diverse cultures and her passion watching stage theater opened new realms of inspiration at every stage she visited. 

Elease embraced a quieter passion that spoke to her inner wisdom-a Fascination with owls. These gentle, mysterious creatures, known for the watchful eye and legendary insight, mirrored the keen perception and thoughtful grace that defined her! At one time, her home over flowed with a collection of owl memorabilia, each piece a cherished emblem of the sagacity and serenity she proudly embodied. 

Elease departed this life on April 27, 2025 at the age of 91 years, 10 months, and 22 days, enveloped in the love of those she leaves to cherish her memory; her devoted daughters: Terry S. Spurling, Lisa Spurling, and Vickie A. Hendon; beloved niece Delphine Murry; dutiful son Andre D. Hendon; her sister Lora B. Johnson of Milwaukee, WI, nephews: Brent Johnson and Eric Spurling and niece: Ava Johnson and her doting grandchildren: Nicole R. Strong, Candice S. Pettie, Marcus L. Spurling, Darius F. Spurling, Brandon T. Washington, and Victoria L. Robinson. and her great grandson: Aiden L. Washington and a host of relatives and dear friends.