Marlene Ann Sterling was born to Michael Soares and Dorothy Fonseca, on November 5, 1950, in New Bedford, Massachusetts. She was raised in New Bedford, the beautiful whaling city, that she was so proud of, full of her Cape Verdean culture and history, with numerous relatives and friends that she grew up with during her school days. She then attended UMASS in Amherst, MA where she met the love of her life, El, who she affectionately called “Sterl.” Their journey began from that moment on and continued until God called her back home. For 52 amazing, beautiful years it was Marlene & Sterl. Better known as, “Lady Ann”, as that is what Sterl called her, they traveled throughout the world, with the United States Air Force, seeing the beauty all around and made numerous friends and acquaintances that still are a part of the family today. Marlene and Sterl were each other’s partners, best friends, and sidekicks for 52 years. A love story that will continue forever.

Marlene was an educator for over 25 years and helped enrich the lives of many students through education and books. This is where her nickname came from,” book lady”. Marlene is the very proud mother of 2 children whom she loved dearly and was so proud of. She told everyone near and far of all the great accomplishments her children accomplished. Her eldest, Shauna, also an educator for over 25 years, was her best friend, and anyone that knew the two of them knew they were inseparable. Trips, talks and laughs are what they did each and every day. Her son, Jonathan, was her sidekick and made her laugh constantly. She was always so proud when telling everyone that he was in the NBA and on TV. To watch her, watch him on the court, was a true testament to the love and how proud she was of him. She and Sterl cheered him on every chance they got while watching his games. Marlene was and will always be her children’s and grandchild’s biggest fan and supporter. She has the biggest heart you’ve ever come across, genuine, kind and would take the time to listen when someone needed an ear and offer advice to help.

Marlene is survived by her loving hubby, El Sterling ( Viera, Fl), her daughter, Shauna Sterling, (Hangzhou, China), her son, Jonathan Sterling (wife Lauren), her beautiful grandchild, Stoan, that she loved dearly, and a multitude of family members and friends that will truly miss her.

Lady Ann, mommy, mom, nana…we love you and thank you for all that you have done for our family and will continue to do.
Never good-bye, as you will always and forever be in our hearts.

We love you to the moon and back…
Sunrise: November 5, 1950
Sunset: April 22, 2025