Marlin Hugh "Sonny" Townley

Funeral Service for Marlin Hugh "Sonny" Townley, will be at 10am on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Evans and Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Jim Cook officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

Mr. Townley passed away at the age of 79 on Saturday June 11, 2022 in Teague, Texas.

He was born on February 21, 1943 in Kennette, Missouri to Albert and Zelma Townley. He was one of nine children, one if which was his twin sister Martha sue Townley. He resided in Poteau, Oklahoma for many years. Before moving to Teague, Texas in 2002 and quickly became known as “The Lawn Mower Man”. He could be seen riding around town with his wagon in tow collecting cans to recycle. He removed every tab on every can top, and donated his collections to raise money for dialysis patient treatment. Marlin rode his mower in all parades in Teague before taking residence in Teague nursing home. His mower would be decorated with lights and a wreath at Christmas time and would even wear his Santa hat. The lawnmower man never met a stranger and always had a story to tell or a short tune to sing that he made up. His presence will be dearly missed.

Marlin is survived by his son, Thomas Townley of Peoria, Arizona. Two daughters, Laroi Cover of Gilbert, Arizona, and Sandra Hice of Greenwood, Arkansas. His loving sister Linda Ryan of Fairfield, Texas. And a host of grandkids, nieces, nephews, friends & extended family.

Marlin is preceded in death by both parents, Albert and Zelma Townley. His twin sister, Martha Sue Townely. Sisters, Betty Ray Townley, Shirley JoAnn Armstrong, Brenda Faye Townley. Three brothers, Alonzo Jackson Townley, Albert Junior Townley, and Jerry Dean Townley.