Marlene Gish

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Ellen Marlene Gish, known to all as Marlene, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Marlene was born in Carthage, Missouri on Friday, June 20, 1941, to the union of the late Kermit and Bettye (Roper) Dreibelbis. Marlene was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Lewis Thomas Gish, and her two children, Amanda Ann Gish of Webb City, MO, and Paul Thomas Gish and his wife, Cheri of Bozeman, Montana; and granddaughter, Hayden Toeniskoetter, also of Bozeman, Montana. Marlene's siblings, Betty Dobson of Sarcoxie, MO, and Judy High and husband Wayne of Berryville, Arkansas, also survive her. She was an adored aunt to several nieces and nephews, and a treasured friend to many others.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Harold and Curtis Dreibelbis.

Born in Carthage, and raised in Sarcoxie, she was a proud 1959 graduate of Sarcoxie High School. She was a dedicated worker throughout her life, starting her career at Ozark Village. Marlene later found joy working as an advertising clerk at the Sarcoxie Record and as a server at Ruthie's Cafe. Her work was a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to her community.

Her interests were as varied as they were passionate. Marlene had a keen eye for home decorating, creating warm and inviting spaces for her family and friends to enjoy. She was also a gifted cook, always ready to welcome loved ones with a delicious meal. Marlene's love for fashion was well known, her style was both timeless and chic, and she had a natural talent for making everything look effortlessly elegant. She was a member of New Beginnings Nazarene Church in Sarcoxie and enjoyed singing in the church choir.

Marlene's life was one of love, faith, and creativity. Her family and friends will always remember her warm smile, her inspiring faith, and her zest for life. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be from 9-11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, immediately followed by Funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at New Beginnings Nazarene Church in Sarcoxie, with Pastor James Humphrey officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Webb City, MO. 

Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Paul Gish, Blair McArthur, J.D. Jennett, Jerry Edwars, Daniel Gish and Mike Welde On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.