Where did the baby name Marlesa come from in 1986?

Marlesa Ball, top 10 at Miss America 1987
Marlesa Ball

The baby name Marlesa appeared in the U.S. baby name for the first and (so far) only time in 1986:

  • 1988: unlisted
  • 1987: unlisted
  • 1986: 11 baby girls named Marlesa [debut]
  • 1985: unlisted
  • 1984: unlisted

Why?

Because of beauty queen Marlesa Ball.

After being crowned Miss Georgia in June of 1986, she advanced to the Miss America pageant, which was held in Atlantic City on September 13. The competition was televised nationally on NBC.

Marlesa didn’t end up winning, but her vocal performance of “Amazing Grace” did help her earn a spot in the top 10.

These days, Marlesa is living in Alabama with her husband and two sons (named Asher and Tyse). Here’s Marlesa’s website.

What are your thoughts on the name Marlesa?

Sources: Marlesa Ball Greiner: Miss Georgia 1986, Miss America 1987 – Wikipedia, SSA

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