Marlene Bernice West

Marlene Bernice West (Pollock), age 80, passed away peacefully at her home, January 26, 2026, in Franklin, Tennessee.

Born on July 3, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, Marlene brought warmth and compassion into the world from the very beginning. Over the course of her life, she cultivated deep roots in every community she touched. Residing most of her life in New Jersey and ultimately making her home in Franklin, Tennessee, where she became a beloved presence.

Marlene was a devoted mother to her three sons: David Adam West, Gregory Mark West, and Michael Leon West. Her love extended to their families as well, including daughters-in-law Kelly Ann West, Michelle Lewis West, and Stephanie West. She cherished her role as grandmother to Abigail Maxine West, Cole Michael West, Ella Rae West, McKenzie Claybrooke West, and Mitchell Davis. Her family was the center of her world and the source of immense pride and joy.

She shared many years of marriage with her late husband, Maxwell Maurice West. Together they built a life and family grounded in love, adventure, and certainly the occasional surprise or two! Marlene also maintained a close bond with her late dearest cousin, Bonnie Sawicki, beloved friends Teddi Klein and Judy Sochoka, throughout her life, and valued their weekly conversations more then she could ever express.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, she is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Ronald and Wilma Pollock of Brooklyn, New York, many nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.

Marlene’s passions were as vibrant as her spirit. A lifelong lover of animals—especially dogs, including her last companion, her precious Jake—she dedicated countless hours volunteering at the Williamson County Animal Shelter. Her compassion for animals reflected the same kindness she showed to everyone around her.

She found joy in reading and playing mah jong with friends and was an enthusiastic supporter of the arts through her involvement with Pull-Tight Players Theatre in Franklin. Whether volunteering behind the scenes or attending performances, Marlene embraced creativity and community with equal enthusiasm.

Those who knew Marlene remember her as caring and charitable—a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose generosity left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marlene’s name to the Williamson County Animal Shelter—a cause close to her heart.