Lila Marlene Mays-Swanson, 89, of Magalia, California, formerly of Manchester passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at her home in California.
She was born on June 25, 1936 in Iowa City, Iowa. The daughter of Carl and Hazel (Tudor) Hawker. Marlene was raised and educated in Manchester and graduated from Manchester High School.
She was married to Donald Mays in November, 1964 in Glendale, California. They lived in Whittier, California for most of their time together but moved to Magalia, California upon retirement. Donald died on August 11, 1998. Marlene then married Kenneth Swanson in December, 2005 in Magalia. Kenneth died on December 5, 2006. Marlene was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and a proud 53 year member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She enjoyed singing, painting, gardening and sewing. Her cats were her obsession and genealogy was her passion.
Survivors include two sisters-in-law Mary Lou Hawker and Marcia Hawker, both of Manchester, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Donald Mays and Kenneth Swanson; and two brothers, Willard Hawker and Wallace Hawker.
Leonard-Muller Funeral Home of Manchester, Iowa is assisting the family at this time.
Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.
Private Graveside Service: At a later date
Interment: Oakland Cemetery, Manchester, Iowa
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