Obituary of Mark Warren

MARK FRANKLIN WARREN, age 44 joined his Heavenly Father in the early evening hours Monday, October 19, 2009 at Smyth County Community Hospital. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jimmy and Nancy Warren, one brother Brian Warren and one sister, Cheryl Warren. He is survived by his loving family, stepmother Charlotte Warren, Marion, Virginia; aunt Doris W. Van Blaricom, Largo, Florida; uncle Clyde "Zeke" Warren, Marion, Virginia; sister-in-law Maria E. Warren, Knoxville, Tennessee; nephews Kevin Warren and Lee Warren, both of Knoxville, Tennessee; numerous cousins and many special friends. He was also a godparent of several children of close friends. Mark was born December 21, 1964. He graduated from Marion Senior High School and received a Baccalaureate degree in History from Virginia Tech. Mark had a lifelong passion for public service starting with his participation in Boys State following his junior year in high school. Later, he worked in the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Most recently, he served as a member of Marion's Town Council. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Marion. Mark was an advocate for international mission work. He organized and led several mission trips abroad. The people of Zimbabwe occupied a special place in Mark's heart. He developed an endearing friendship with Pastor Samuel Dzobo and his family. Mark faced numerous adversities in his life and his resiliency was, and will continue to be, an inspiration to everyone who knew him. Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Marion, Virginia with Reverend Jonathan Jonas and Reverend Samuel Dzobo officiating. A private burial will follow. The family will receive friends Friday, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Seaver-Brown Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, 115 South Church Street, Marion, Virginia 24354 or the charity of your choice. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.seaverbrown.com. Seaver-Brown Funeral Service and Crematory is serving the Warren Family.