Marlene E. Mele, 76, of Marlborough, MA peacefully passed away Friday, July 24th, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones.

She was the daughter of the late Ralph and Louise (Humphrey) Goneau, and wife of the late Robert C. Mele Sr. She is predeceased by her brothers William, Paul, Phillip and Ralph, and her sisters Louise, Jane and Audrey.

Marlene had many interests, and a love of sharing them, but her true passion was her family. Surrounded by such a large and loving family, it was only natural they became such an important part of her life. From trips to Wingaersheek Beach with her siblings, to catching fireflies in jars with her sister Wheezie, to big Fourth of July family gatherings at her sister Jane’s house, they were always together.

When it came to her career, she took great pride in being a Rehabilitation Counselor at Westboro State Hospital and worked for the State of Massachusetts for over 30 years. She cared for her co-workers and patients like a second family. Her time at Westboro State greatly impacted her life, and she often reminisced about it after her time there.

Once retired, Marlene spent most of her time volunteering at St. Matthias Parish. This came in the form of singing in the church choir and assisting in the office. Outside of the church, she indulged in her passion for reading books and solving crossword puzzles. Her and her beloved husband would also take day trips to local beaches and museums.

After her husband passed, she spent her later years doting over her grandkids, and imparting wisdom to her children and their spouses. She always loved big and loved all, and encouraged others to do the same.

Marlene leaves behind her son, Robert C. Mele Jr. and his wife Rachel of Templeton, her daughter Lisa Mele and her husband Frank Lindsey of Marlborough, and her brother Peter Goneau and his wife Irene of Woburn. She also leaves behind her four grandchildren, Gabriel Mele, Joseph Mele, David Lindsey and Evelyn Lindsey.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Slattery Funeral Home, 40 Pleasant Street, Marlborough, MA 01752. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at 10:00am at St. Matthias Church, 409 Hemenway Street, Marlborough, MA. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, 108 Medway Road, Milford, MA 01747, followed by a reception at the Sacred Heart Church Hall at 5 East Main Street, in Milford.