Mary Marlene Sutherland, age 85, of Devine Texas passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2026.
Marlene was born on January 19, 1941, at her family’s home in Atascosa County to Irene and Fritz Schroeter. She spent her life devoted to her family near and far and was known for her sweet and kind spirit.
Marlene had a deeply artistic nature and a keen eye for detail. She loved creating art and spent time painting many beautiful pieces that reflected her creativity and appreciation for beauty.
At a young age, Marlene’s family moved to Oaxaca, Mexico, where she and her brother, Don, spent many days walking the short distance from their home to explore and play among the ancient Zapotec ruins. Marlene always treasured her time in Mexico and the memories made there. Eventually, her family returned to Devine, Texas, where she continued her schooling.
After graduating from high school, Marlene moved to Panama City, Panama, where she lived for two years. She later settled in Austin, Texas, where she began raising her family. After seven years in Austin, she returned to Devine where she lived for the remainder of her life.
Marlene had a love for travel and adventure, visiting family in Alaska, touring parts of Europe, and returning to the southern regions of Mexico she had loved so much in her youth. She dedicated more than 20 years as an educator with the Devine Independent School District where she taught several grade levels and touched the lives of many students.
She is survived by her sons, Louis Davis of Devine, John Davis and wife Pennie of Devine, and Eric Davis of Luling; her brother Donald and wife Mary Jo Schroeter of Fort Worth; her sister Annella Dickinson and husband Frank of Valdez, Alaska; her brother Fred Schoeter and partner Ronny of San Antonio; and her sister Sara Thornbloom and husband Austin of San Antonio. She is also survived by grandchildren Jeanie Cherry, Joy Funke, John Davis, Joseph Davis, and Rose Davis; great-grandchildren Bayleigh Davis, Beau Davis, Everett Cherry, Abigail Cherry, Clara Funke, Easton Funke; and many nieces and nephews.
Marlene was preceded in death by her husband of 18 years Leroy Sutherland, sister Yvette Harless, and nephew Rusty Dickinson.
A memorial service for Marlene will be held at a later date.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all those who knew her.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.
Mary Marlene Sutherland
