Readers share memories of Family Fashions' Marlene Roberts
She was well-known in the Wrexham area for having set up the popular 'Family Fashions' business.
Originally operating out of the garage of 54, Dean Road in Wrexham, the business went on to become 15 shops throughout North Wales, employing over 60 people.
News of Ms Roberts' death was met by an outpouring of tributes from our readers, many of whom used to work with her.
Janette Price got in touch with us to say: "My first job was with Family Fashions in Gwersyllt when I left school, where I worked for 17 wonderful years. Marlene was a lovely lady and couldn't have asked for a better boss."
Sharon Jones added: "My very first boss from leaving school, working in warehouse in Brynteg, helping out at weekends in shops. I loved my job there, Marlene was such a caring lady as her daughters are both to this day.
"So many memories had at my time at Family Fashions, a great team of people worked at all sites "
June Smith said: "My husband and I lived with Marlene in 1961, we had such fun and became firm friends. I worked in FF in Henblas Street and Borras and I will miss her so much."
Family Fashions in Wrexham. (Image: Ashley Williams) Jo Williams told us: "I was only reminiscing last week with my mum about my first ever job...in Family Fashions in Borras which I loved. I was so grateful for the opportunity of learning so much and earning money at a young age."
Andrea O'Keefe added: "Was my first job, she was a wonderful person and she will be missed very much."
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John Parry said: "Marlene was a lovely lady, I used to visit her home regularly many years ago in my role as her family Insurance Agent with The Royal London MIS way back then. Also frequented her shops in the day. She was always warm and friendly, always interested in how your life was going, a real and genuine lady in all ways."
Laura Millward added: "Condolences to the family. I worked as a Saturday girl in the Mold Shop in the 80's, many happy memories."
Linda Crosbie said: "My mum Marjorie was a friend of Marlene's and I was briefly at school with Nichola and Alison (her daughters). My sincere condolences to your family. Those ladies in Dean Road were unique."
Louise McCarthy told us: "Marlene was a remarkable and lovely lady and I'm privileged to have known her."
A celebration of Ms Roberts' life will take place at Pentrebychan Crematorium, Wrexham on Friday, August 1 from 11.45 am.
The family is requesting that guests wear bright and colourful clothing to the service.
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