Marlena Lynn Ballard, 58, of South Bend, passed away at home on Thursday, April 3rd.

Marlena was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan on March 16, 1967, to Larry and Vicki (Bailey) Ballard. She was a life-long area resident. Marlena had a large heart for animals and turned that love into becoming Furry Friends & More of South Bend, where she provided in home pet care with the upmost love for other people’s furry family members. She was known to volunteer at many of the local pet shelters and use her voice to advocate for animal rights. She also enjoyed antiquing, bird watching, gardening, the beach, history and anything nature.

Marlena is survived by her sister, Traci (Ballard) Andrade, brother-in-law, Miguel Andrade, nephew Lawrence Andrade, Stepmother, Linda Ballard, Stepbrother, Shane Schrader, stepsister Michele Schrader, niece Shalee Schrader, along with her fur babies, Boots and Kai.

As per Marlena’s wishes, cremation is to take place with a memorial visitation to be held on Saturday, May 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hanley and Sons Funeral Home, 23421 SR 23, South Bend. The entire staff at Hanley and Sons wish to extend their deepest sympathy to all of Marlena’s friends and family.