Marlene ‘Williamson’ Doran

Marlene “Williamson” Doran, daughter of Ernest and Lucille Williamson, passed away on Dec. 7, 2020 in New York City. Marlene was born in Charles City on July 17, 1938 at the Cedar Valley Hospital.

She attended the Immaculate Conception School and graduated in the Class of 1956. She attended Clark College in Dubuque for one year. At that time, she decided to become a Flight Attendant and was hired by Capital Airlines and was based in New Orleans and was then transferred to Chicago. She eventually transferred to New York City and that is where she retired after over 40 years as a Flight Attendant. Her career allowed her to travel the world and she met many influential people at the same time. A few of them were Fidel Castro, President Clinton, Rocky Marciano and Robert Redford.

The Music Field was always are very special part of her life having played the piano and then studying Voice. She became an accomplished musician and even wrote some of her own songs. One song was entitled Waverly. She developed her voice which enabled her to sing in the different Cathedrals there in New York City. She also sang in several Choir groups and for Weddings as well. She also loved returning to Charles City for a visit. She enjoyed taking a ride to one of the various towns in the vicinity stopping to shop and have a cup of her love COFFEE. All of these towns were a sharp contrast to all of the hustle and bustle of the big city. That was a tonic for her.

Over the years, Marlene developed many friends and was a very social person going to Plays, Concerts, Exhibits, Museums, Operas and just really was in love with New York City and what it had to offer in the way of Culture and Entertainment. She truly became a city girl and she felt safe and at home there. She made a great tour guide after all those years in the city.

Her passing has left a void in so many lives that she touched with her love of her fellow man, her compassion and caring ways. Marlene was gracious and appreciative of every little thing. She just wanted everyone to be happy. There will be a Memorial Service held for her in New York in the Spring conducted by her friends and acquaintances. Marlene is survived by her brother Duane Williamson who resides in Phoenix, Arizona.