Marlene Rosa "Nana" (Atkins) Carr

UTICA – Marlene Rosa “Nana” (Atkins) Carr, age 77, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. At the time of her passing she was lovingly encircled by her family. A native Utican, Marlene was born on May 7, 1948 to the late Robert and Mary Lee (Moore) Atkins. She attended Potter and Kernan Elementary Schools and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1966. At one time Marlene was married to Willie James “Ted” Carr. From that union came the blessing of their daughter, Almisha “Misha” Carr. In addition to being a devoted mother, Marlene skillfully managed her home while also working to support her family. She served diligently with several organizations, including Abelove Laundry, Tri-State Laundry, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, and multiple local hotels. She was perhaps best known for her years on the cleaning staff at the Utica Memorial Auditorium, where she was respected in every role for her strong work ethic and dedication. Marlene was kind-hearted and extremely generous; she truly had a beautiful soul. She shared a deep connection with each of her children and had an uncanny ability to see through them—to know when something weighed on their hearts. In her home, the question “How are you doing?” was never just rhetorical. She genuinely cared for the well-being of others. Her role as a mother extended far beyond her own children—she embraced all who found their way to her. A trusted confidant, she offered sound advice and never led anyone astray. She comforted those in pain, but always spoke her truth, often reminding her loved ones that “the truth shall set you free.” Well-known in the community, everyone knew when Marlene had arrived—she would joyfully announce, “Here I am!” She was always ready to cook large family meals, especially soul food, and there was always a seat at her table for anyone who needed one. When it came to treating herself, she had a special fondness for Longhorn cheese—and could easily enjoy an entire container all on her own. In her spare time, Marlene loved listening to music and showing off her dance moves. She was known for keeping the television tuned to her favorite shows—Sanford and Son, Law & Order, and all the classic favorites. She took great pride in cleaning and passed that skill along to her children, teaching them the importance of caring for their space. Marlene cherished her home and found deep comfort in simply being there. As a grandmother and great-grandmother, Marlene was strict and “didn’t play,” but her love was always clear—especially in the unique nicknames she gave each one. To them, she will always be legendary for the example she set and the values she lived by. Marlene had a deep faith in the Lord and made it a priority to bring her children to God’s house as well. She encouraged each of them to build their own personal relationship with God—and was proud to see them do so. Until its closing, she was a devoted member and contributor at St. James AME Church, located at the corner of Eagle Street and Dudley Avenue. Marlene is survived by her children and their loved ones: Almisha “Misha” Carr and Juanito Self; Angela “Angie” Carr-Patterson and her husband, Roger Patterson; Geneva Carr; Mark “Baldy” Carr; Marcus Carr; Mardina Carr; and Irving Carr. She cherished the memory of her son, Matthew Carr. She leaves to cherish her memory her grandchildren: Kaseem “Rocky,” Ashley, and Shanequa; Jeffrey, Matthew, and Mia; Robert; Roger and Shavelle, Shakeema, Shakena, and Rodgerick; Nasir, Nariah, Irving Jr., Nakari, Gabriel, and Khaliya; Amanda, Janija, Lonor, Asianeg, and Milaya; Jovan, Marcus Jr., Raymond, and Ziyira; and 23 great-grandchildren. Marlene is also survived by her sisters and brother-in-law: Deborah Jean and Alphonso Washington, Sr.; Alberta Atkins; Carla Perry (wife of the late George William “Jr. Boy” Perry, Jr.); and Marthann Atkins. She fondly remembered her sisters who preceded her in death: Jeanette “Jane” Atkins and Jocelyn A. Griffin. She is further survived by her brother-in-law, James Griffin, Jr.; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; her aunt, Grace Moore; special cousin, Pernell Moore; among many other cousins; godson, Anthony “Fluffy” Spratt; goddaughters, Kizzy Gary and Patricia Henderson; and her best friends who blessed her life: Sheila and Don Billins, Linda Wilson, Joyce Brooks, Dolores Hendricks, and Barbara Jimenez. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staffs of the 5th and 3rd floors at Wynn Hospital, especially Gianna, who was an angel and a godsend when she aided Marlene during her transition. Special thanks are also extended to Almisha and Ashley for the care they extended during Marlene’s difficult time. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Marlene’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Reverend Arthur Gary officiating, and the Reverend George Clark as vocalist, and Pastor David Ossenfort assisting. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/88323752843/invitations?signature=kvuJiHUua7WMm5RhNMo5Z0m8Og409g9C3YXa3KTGEzg.

Marlene Rosa "Nana" (Atkins) Carr

May 7, 1948 - September 9, 2025