Marlene F. (Doherty) Hodgkins died suddenly on Sunday, March 17, 2013 at the age of sixty-five. Marlene was born on May 23, 1947 in Dorchester, MA to Frederick and Marguerite Doherty. She was raised in Dorchester, graduated from Dorchester High School, and spent most of her life there. Marlene had been living in Melrose, MA for the past two years. She cherished her trips to Lincoln and Woodstock New Hampshire. Marlene enjoyed canoeing down the Charles River as well as fishing. She had a great sense of humor, and was a very giving, thoughtful person. For Marlene, family always came first. She always attended to others' needs over her own, and was considered a caretaker to everyone. Marlene loved animals, including her dog, rabbit and three cats. Her favorite holidays were Christmas and Thanksgiving, where she would be surrounded by her family who she loved dearly. The holidays always gave her an opportunity to entertain those she loved most. Marlene was the devoted wife of Franklin C. Hodgkins of Melrose. Loving mother of Christine M. Connolly, Lisa Garcia and the late John F. Connolly. Beloved grandmother of Amanda, Joey, Jacob, Courtney, Shannon, Edward and Corey. Best friends of Laura Higgins of Quincy & her extended family. Mother-in-law of Brian Reynolds, Eddie Mallard & Debbie Calhoun. Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Sunday, March 24th from 2:00-6:00PM, followed by a prayer service at 6PM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions in Marlene's memory may be made to the Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Ave, Salem, MA 01970 or to the MSPCA, 350 Huntington Ave. Boston, MA 02130.