Melvena Quillen, age 72, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 31st, 2025. A beloved sister, Aunt, daughter, and friend. Born to Zenobia (Marshall) and Melvin Quillen Sr. on October 15th, 2052. Melvena was the first-born child and oldest sibling. A brilliant mind and compassionate free spirit, faithful child of God, with an artistic soul…Melvena graduated from Temple University with a degree in Education and Art. For over 30 years, she served her community and local schools as a talented and skilled art teacher to many and was loved dearly. She dedicated her career to inspiring others and making significant contributions as a leader in her community, but especially to children and students. Melvena loved to be a part of festivals, competitions, and enjoyed traveling. She loved shopping and visiting flee markets, where she found treasures that only an artist could appreciate. Known for her infectious laugh and smile, her free nature always lit up a room. The best part of Melvena (Mel as we call her), is that she always showed up as herself, unapologetically bold and freely independent in her own expression. Melvena was dangerous with a blank piece of paper. She loved to draw, paint, sculpt, and design her own creations. She loved plants, flowers, chocolate, music, barbie dolls, and all things purple! She undoubtedly leaves us with so many fun-loving memories. She enjoyed buying houses at any early age and could fill them to capacity with the things she loved. She enjoyed spending time with her close friends and family and made holidays filled with surprises. The family honors her celebration of life by wearing purple today. Melvena is survived by her siblings and extended family.

Kent Marshall (brother), William Marshall Jr. (brother), Daryll Marshall (brother, wife Erica, children: Alex, Christian, and Alyssa), Sherri Marshall (sister, children: Gary and Justin), April Quillen Cave (sister, husband Lawrence, children: Alicia and Brandon, great nieces Niyah, Aiyana, great nephew Angelo Jr.), Melvin Quillen Jr. (brother, wife Trudy, children: Marquis, Melvin 3rd, Teka, Jamond, Imani, Ebony, Dejana and Juri). The family would like to give special thanks to family, friends, leaders and servants of the church, and all those who contributed to celebrating the life of our beloved Melvena Quillen.