John Melbourne Marler, age 85, passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by family, to join his Heavenly Father Friday, September 13, 2024.
Born in Doniphan, Mo., October 2, 1938, as the fourth of six children to Irvin and Mary McPheeters Marler. Known as “Johnny” by his family, he spent his childhood in southeastern Missouri and later in western Kentucky, graduating from Greenville High School in 1957. He served in the U.S. Army for three years in the Corps of Engineers and later attended Western Kentucky University, where he met his wife, Carol Mastin Marler of Paris. The couple began their life together in Paris in 1965.
John retired after 20 years of civil service from the Lexington-Bluegrass and Richmond Army Depots. In 1975, he and his wife opened Carol ‘n John’s Florist and Greenhouse in Paris. Together, they owned and operated the successful small business for more than 29 years. John later enjoyed working part-time as a bus driver for Bluegrass Tours in Lexington. His love for the Lord was evident throughout his life. He served as Sunday school teacher and Deacon at the First Baptist Church in Paris for many years.
Throughout his life, John dearly loved his church, his family, his dogs and his garden. Known for his gentle nature and dry wit, he had a way of uplifting others with his calm and friendly presence. Always happy, kind, and genuine to everyone he met, he was a positive role model to many. His friendship was a cherished gift, and his legacy of kindness will long be remembered by those who knew him.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 59 years, Carol; sons, Reif (Debbi) Marler of Okatie, S.C., and Sean Marler of Henderson, nev.; daughter, Maebeth (Joe) Harbison of Paducah; three grandchildren (James, Benjamin, and Marlee). Also survived by two sisters, Carol Groves and Marilyn Spurlin of Greenville, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Mary Marler, and his three brothers, LeRoy, Robert, and Ray.
Services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 20, at First Baptist Church in Paris with Pastor Kyle Sullivan officiating. Burial to follow in the Paris Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 19, at the church.
