Marlene Ann (Lyate) Avillion

Marlene Ann (Lyate) Avillion , a beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, died on January 17, 2025, at Cedar Crest Hospital in Allentown. Born on October 26, 1934, in Hazleton. Marlene was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by grit, determination, resilience, and an unwavering spirit.

The daughter of Rocco and Donota “Mamie” Lyate, Marlene lived a life of dedication to her family and of great pride in her Italian-American heritage. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Rocco “Rocky” Lyate, and her sisters Rose-Marie Penkala and Angeline Chinni. Marlene’s surviving brother, Anthony, “Tony” was continually in her thoughts and prayers until her passing.

Marlene’s distinguished academic journey included graduating as the valedictorian of the ninth-grade class at Most Precious Blood School in 1949 and graduation from Hazleton High School in 1952. Her passion for the arts culminated in her playing the clarinet at Carnegie Hall in New York City with Father Joseph Ferrara’s Youth Orchestra. 

On October 5, 1957, Marlene married Gerald J. Avillion in a ceremony at Most Precious Blood Church in Hazleton. Their marriage lasted for an incredible 59 years until Gerald's death in 2017. Marlene was a devoted wife and mother, and her family was her pride and joy. She is survived by her two sons, Gerald and David, her daughter-in-law Deborah, and her grandsons, Alex and Tony. Her legacy continues through her loving family, including her brother Anthony, cousins Melissa, and Annie, and nieces and nephews: Robert, Ruth-Ann, Gerard, Richard, Gary, Thomas, Mark, Jennifer, and Rocco.

Professionally, Marlene began her career at Hazleton General Hospital as a switchboard operator and later retired from her Clerk Typist position with the Pennsylvania State Police Troop N Valmont in 1992. Her work ethic was incredible, reflecting her driven nature.

Marlene was known for her thrifty, tenacious ways, which stemmed from a Depression-Era upbringing. Her friends and family often marveled at her “determination”, which was equally matched by her pride in her heritage and her fierce desire to help others improve their lives.

In her leisure time, during different stages of her life, Marlene loved roller skating, reading, playing pinochle, and watching her favorite television shows. She vacationed to France, Italy, Mexico, Alaska, The Caribbean, and widely within the continental United States with her family.  Likely the most memorable, significant, and special experience for Marlene was a convocation in Rome with Pope John Paul II, a memory he cherished throughout his life. She was an enduring member of Most Precious Blood Church.

Her family would like to express most heartfelt thanks to her friends and support network who gave incalculable help and comfort: Bryan, Theresa, Johnny, Cody, Peggy, Lew, Shirley, Mary Jane, Anne, Keith, John, Derek, and Ed.

Marlene Avillion's remarkable journey has come to an end, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Before her death, she finally tuned-out the hateful television propaganda and made a concerted effort to exemplify the values of Transparency, Accountability, Logic, and Compassion.

As we reflect on her life, we remember a woman whose will, attention to detail, and perseverance defined her. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished by her family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday February 01, 2025 at 10 AM at Most Precious Blood Church, Hazleton.

Interment will follow privately in Most Precious Blood Cemetery.  The family will receive relatives and friends at the church from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM prior to the Mass.

Arrangements under the direction of the Joseph B. Conahan Funeral Home, Inc.  532 N. Vine St.  Hazleton.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marlene Ann (Lyate) Avillion, please visit our floral store.