Marvin M. Greene, Sr., 84, life long Loudoun resident and nationally known thoroughbred horse trainer, died on May 22 of congestive heart failure at his Leesburg home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Greene was a graduate of Leesburg High School and served in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. He started his horse training career in 1945 and quickly established himself as one of the nation's best young trainers. He had major success with Columncille, Ballet Rose, Brooklyn Bridge and 1959 Horse of the Year, Sword Dancer.

In 1977 he became manager of Catoctin Stud in Waterford, Virginia and oversaw the thoroughbred operation from birth to track. Genuine Risk, 1980 Kentucky Derby Winner and second in both the Preakness and the Belmont, was under his care and guidance; she remained in his heart until her death in 2008.

Mr. Greene retired in 1987 in Leesburg but remained an active member of the horse community. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Betty R. Greene; three children, Betty True Greene of Leesburg, Monty Greene of Round Hill, and Stilson Greene of Hamilton; one daughter-in-law, Tammy R. Greene of Hamilton; five grandchildren, Lance Greene and Bryan Greene of Leesburg, Kelly Ciaburri of Purcellville, Jessica Malick of Lucketts, Morgan Greene of Hamilton and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Colonial Funeral Home in Leesburg. Services will be held at the Leesburg Presbyterian Church 207 W. Market St. Leesburg, VA 20175 on Thursday, May 28 at 11:00 a.m. Mr. Greene was a confirmed member of the Leesburg Presbyterian Church since 1935.

The family asks that donations be made to the Leesburg Rescue Squad PO Box 1178 Leesburg, VA 20177.