Marion Elizabeth Smith Bethune was born on May 22, 1949 to the late Alfreda Jackson and Johnny Smith, in New York City, New York. Her smile lit up the room, as she was a caring person who loved to laugh. She also had a creative side. She obtained a cosmetology license from Wilfred Academy, then later she became a licenced CNA. 

 Marion got married on December 23, 1994 to Franklin Lloyd Bethune. Franklin was her best friend and their love for each other was clearly seen in the way they spoke to one another. Marion’s nickname ‘China’ came from Franklin because of her beautiful eyes. They shared a wonderful 18 years together and they raised a beautiful family as a team. After Franklin’s passing in November of 2009, Marion continue to provide for her family despite enduring her many sicknesses.

 On May 18, 1997, Marion dedication her life to Jehovah God, and became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She loved the book of Psalms. Her favorite bible verse was Psalm 23:1 which says “Jehovah is my shepherd, I will lack nothing”. However she quoted an older rendering of this verse, from the King James Version which says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” She trusted in Jehovah God, which helped her, and comforted her through her trials and sicknesses.

 Marion loved to tell jokes and stories to her family, as she was very outspoken. These stories created non stop laughter and made your heart swell, these memories are still reiterated to this day.

 Her cooking was the reason for many family gatherings. All were welcomed at her table. Her hospitality was always from her heart, and she was a loving mother.

She leaves behind her loving siblings Johnny and Debra Smith, her sons  Jerome, Sam, Andrew, Qalieak, and Jah’Seiah. She also leaves behind her daugher Izjaray Bethune, and her grandchildren Day Day, Shakeemah, Japaris, Jonte, Amaya, Jakwan, Jaquis, Samone, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Marion also expressed her gratefulness of being able to see her great grandchildren be born : Nyla, Rasuan, Honesty, and Major.