Sylvia Arlene (Kopp) Marley, 92, of Lancaster, died on Saturday, February 25 at Manor Care in Lancaster. She was the wife of the late Robert J. Marley with whom she was married for 54 years. Born in Lititz, she was the daughter of the late Percy W. Kopp, Sr., and Edna (Habecker) Spohn. She was a 1941 graduate of J. P. McCaskey High School, and of Temple University Hospital Training School, Philadelphia, becoming a Registered Nurse. Her first position was as an operating room nurse at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Lancaster. Later she would be an instructor in the Licensed Practical Nursing program at the Willow Street Vo-Tech school.
Faith was a guiding force in Sylvia’s life. She was a devoted and active member of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Lancaster, and later at Concordia Lutheran Church, Columbia. A talented artist and seamstress, she enjoyed sewing, crafts, painting, quilting and applique. At Holy Spirit, she designed and created beautiful paraments, vestments and banners, served on the Altar Guild, sang in the choir, and taught Sunday school. Her family and friends will cherish memories of her flower garden, good meals, and warm Christmas Eve gatherings.
Surviving are her daughters, Lari Jo wife of John D. Walker, Lancaster; Roberta J. Marley-Merchant, Lancaster; grandchildren, Wood R. Walker and Kathryn E. Merchant; her half-sister Marsha J. Killian; and nephews Douglas, John, Mark, and Thomas Kopp. Her brother, Percy W. Kopp, Jr., preceded her in death.
Sylvia’s daughters are planning a spring memorial service from home. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to St. Labre Indian School in Sylvia’s memory. St. Labre; PO Box 216; Ashland, Montana 59003-9989; (866)753-5496 ; www.stlabre.org