Celebrate the life of Marlin G. Lord, Founding Member and Legend

Revered and beloved Del Ray Artisans Board Emeritus and Founding Member Marlin G. Lord passed away on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. Marlin was 84 years old. Join us on Sunday, November 13 from 6-8pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery to celebrate Marlin’s life.

A gifted, accomplished architect and photographer, Marlin left his mark upon the city in ways seen and unseen. As a former President of the Del Ray Citizens Association as well as past Treasurer, Community/Business Liaison, and Facilities Director of Del Ray Artisans, where he was a founding member along with his loving and longtime dedicated partner Kathryn A. Brown, Marlin left an indelible mark on our community.

You cannot think of Marlin without Kathryn or Kathryn without Marlin. Together their civic activism, community service, philanthropic pursuits, and arts advocacy have made DRA and the ever eclectic yet prosperous Del Ray into what we know today. Their altruistic endeavors have cast a ripple effect upon making Alexandria better and better for over three decades—earning them Alexandria Living Legend induction in 2013.

Born in Michigan and raised in Minnesota, Marlin earned degrees in architecture in 1960 and 1962. He’s best known professionally for the straightening of the Monroe Avenue Bridge along Route 1, a project resulting in the corollary expansion of parkland at Simpson Field. Marlin also was integral in the redevelopment design of Potomac Yard.

Marlin’s curricula vitae of civic engagement reads on and on: the Alexandria Arts Forum; the Alexandria Park and Recreation Commission, where he served for 20 years, seven as Chairman; the Chinquapin Organic Gardens; King Street Gardens Park Foundation and countless City committees and task forces. With Kathryn by his side, a tandem partner in all things, there was always time to give, to give back, and give all. Marlin was truly a man for all seasons and is an Alexandria legend for all time.

Photo: Marlin G. Lord (2011)