Marla Cones was born April 29, 1972, in Detroit, Michigan, to her mother Marilyn Cones.

It was evident, early as a young child, that Marla had a gift of making everyone she encountered feel special, as though they held a unique bond in her heart.

Marla accepted Christ at a young age, attending Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, where her love for music was spawned.

While attending Tappan Middle School, she followed in her brother's footsteps, joining the school's band.  Marla quickly mastered several instruments, including the Clarinet, Snare, and Bass Drums.  Her dedication propelled her to become the first female drummer at both Tappan Middle School, and Mackenzie High School, where she also served as the first female drum-line member of the "Stick 'em Up Crew".

Marla's ability to form unbreakable bonds and lasting relationships accompanied her in every walk of life, as she positively impacted the lives of many family and friends, throughout her travels across this great nation, before she ultimately settled down in Eagle Mills, Arkansas to care for her grandmother, who preceded her in death.

Marla enjoyed working in the hospitality industry, as well as a Quality Insurance Inspector at Lockheed Martin.

Although diagnosed with a rare disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Marla never let ALS hold her spirits at bay; she was always upbeat, positive, and thinking of others.  With the love and support of close family and friends Marla fought until the moment our Lord and Savior exchanged her pain, honoring her with heavenly wings.

Marla is preceded in death by her mother Marilyn, and brother Edward "Norman" Cones.  She leaves behind her beloved sister and brother Lena and Christopher Cones, as well as her nephew James Cones, nieces Mya, and Lauren Cones, and a special friend, Anthony "Tony" Williams, who devoted his time to her, making her comfortable, as well a host of Family, and Friends.