Anthel "Dave" Marlin

Dave Marlin (63) passed on Saturday, April 17th at home. Surviving Dave are his wife, Millie, daughters Emily and Sarah, and grandson, Asher Davis. Also surviving are his mother, Carolyn, and siblings Dean and Mara.

Dave is remembered for his gentle and reserved demeanor, quiet smile, and ever-ready, infectious laugh.  Everyone loved being around Dave, and people were drawn to his easy-going personality and good humor.  Dave was born in Batesville, AR and graduated from Arkansas State University, where he met the love of his life, Millie. They were married for 36 years and raised their two daughters in North Little Rock. Dave worked at Maybelline/L’oreal for over 40 years, pouring into his co-workers and excitedly explaining the “robots” to anyone who asked.

A great fan of John Wayne, Dave loved any old western and action movies, as well as slapstick comedy and corny jokes.  His trivia knowledge about movies and actors was impressive, and he had a wealth of movie quotes and song lyrics always at the ready.  One of Dave’s greatest passions and joys was music.  He sang in the BCLR choir for decades, and enjoyed listening to current hits, but especially classic oldies.  Dave also had a gift for interacting with children, and loved getting to play and spend time with the youngsters in his extended family.  While he was all laughs most of the time, Dave was also known to have a temper when it came to driving, games, or sports -- no matter what teams were playing.  His habit of watching sports or news channels gradually became a begrudging love of Hallmark movies over the years, although he still enjoyed the occasional golf match or football game.

Dave’s caring nature was shown through his immediate willingness to help and provide for people.  Though he deeply disliked yard work, he was often found volunteering at swim meets, helping coworkers solve problems, or running errands and doing chores (especially solving technology issues) for his family.  He always ensured that his girls had everything they needed -- drinks, snacks, travel arrangements, directions -- before they left or he went to bed, and was always willing to partake in their adventures and spur-of-the-moment requests.  Dave also enjoyed countless vacations to Branson every year, as well as visiting family in Tennessee, Missouri, and Georgia.  He particularly enjoyed going to the lake every summer and napping -- on the couch, on the porch, on the boat -- and going a little too fast on jet ski rides.

Though he was taken home sooner than any of us expected, he lived a wonderful life and left many warm memories for us to cherish until we see him again. He is now looking into the face of his Savior, Jesus Christ, and we are comforted knowing that he is singing those high tenor notes once again and rejoicing before the throne of God.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donating to Caring Hearts Pregnancy Center, as this center played a large role in the family’s most recent chapter, welcoming their first grandchild, Asher Davis, who shares Dave’s middle name.

Visitation will begin at 3:00 PM, Friday, April 23, 2021 at Bible Church in Little Rock, with a Memorial Service starting at 4:30 PM.

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home , 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.