Marzell Washington was born on October 21, 1933, in Emerson, Arkansas, to Helen and W.D. Jermany. She was raised in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where she began laying the foundation for the life and legacy she would build.

As the eldest of seven daughters, Marzell shared a deep and lifelong bond with her sisters: Mardell Stevenson, Angela Moten, Ruth Gillie, Naomi Williams, Mary Grant and Virginia King. Being the oldest, she naturally stepped into a role of strength and leadership. Qualities that would define her throughout her life.

During her time in Pine Bluff, she welcomed her beloved son, Larry Jermany before moving to Cleveland, where she welcomed her daughters, Debra Draper and Regina Barrett. Later in life she would relocate to Denver, Colorado, where she met and fell in love with George Washington. The two were united in marriage in June of 1962, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and commitment. Together, they built their family and welcomed Lynn Washington, Brenda Washington, and Marvin Washington.

In August of 1978, Marzell and George made Dallas, Texas their home, where she would spend the majority of her life building a foundation that generations would stand on. Their union endured until George's passing in March of 2004.

Marzell was a dedicated and hardworking woman who spent 20 years working in healthcare at Parkland Hospital, where she served with care, compassion, and commitment.

For 47 years, Marzell was a faithful and devoted member of Greater Harvest Church of God in Christ. Her love for the Lord was evident in how she lived, spoke, and led her family. She instilled in her children and grandchildren the importance of staying connected, loving one another, and serving the Lord in all that they do. It was not just something she said – it was how she lived.

Affectionately known as the matriarch, Marzell was the heart and anchor of her family. Though small in stature, she carried a powerful presence. Her voice was loud, her laugh was unmistakable, and her impact was undeniable.

She found joy in life's simple and meaningful pleasures: traveling, tending to her garden, cleaning and eating fried crappy, hosting her family, enjoying her trips to the casino, and taking her walks at Kiest Park. Her home was more than a house. It was home base, a place where family gathered, celebrated, and found comfort.

On March 25, 2026, she peacefully transitioned, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

Marzell was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and W.D. Jermany, son, Larry Jermany; her sisters, Mary Grant and Virginia King, and her husband, George Washington.

She leaves behind a legacy carried on by her loving sisters, Mardell Stevenson, Angela Moten (Alfred), Ruth Gille (Frank), Naomi Williams (Nathaniel); her devoted children, Debra Draper, Regina Barrett (Kerry), Lynn Washington, Brenda Washington, Marvin Washington, and a daughter by love, Tammy Washington.

Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren: Tarsha Ware (Jeovonie), Tarel Washington, Jabari Reynolds, Desmoni Jermany, Evan Washington (Asia), Monique Jermany, Sydney Washington, Kameron Barrett, and Isaiah Washington.

She was also blessed to share four and a half beautiful months with her great-granddaughter, Aspen Washington, whom she lovingly called "Coco."

She also deeply loved a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will continue to cherish her memory.

Her life was a testament to strength, faith, and family. She will live on in every gathering, every shared meal, every laugh, and every prayer.