Charlene Isbell's Obituary
Mary Charlene (Carney) Isbell, 80, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 28, 2015. Charlene, a breast cancer survivor, had a unique sense of fun and spontaneity. Her zest for life was contagious to all those around her. She had a deep appreciation for the arts and was, herself, talented in all things creative. Charlene was born September 22, 1935, in Dallas to Chester A. and Loreta Carney. She attended schools in Dallas and graduated from Crozier Tech High School. She met her lifelong sweetheart, John B. Isbell, while both were working at Stevens Park Hospital. They were married May 10, 1960, and celebrated 39 beautiful years together. Charlene was a devoted wife, mother, homemaker, and so much more who always put her family first. Her hobby of baking and decorating custom cakes for family and friends quickly grew into a successful business, “Original Cake Designs.” Her clients included prominent Dallasites, such as Mary Kay Ash. Charlene had a flair for entertaining and was especially gifted at making everyone feel welcome in her home. Many were blessed by her culinary skills and ability to make every occasion extra special. She delighted in travel, including cruises, trips to Las Vegas, and she shared many memorable journeys with John in their RV. She enjoyed playing golf, snow skiing, and was an avid Texas Aggie fan who faithfully attended games in College Station. Charlene is survived by her dearly loved brother Bill “Bubba” Carney of Piedmont, Calif., son John Allen Isbell and daughter-in-law Margo of Dallas, daughter Denise Ray and son-in-law David of Grand Prairie, son Joe Isbell and daughter-in-law Julie of Lumberton, brother-in-law Frank Isbell of Bonham, niece Eve Elkins and family and nephew Greg Isbell and family. She was a beloved Granny to her seven precious grandchildren: Darby, Jamie, Andrew, Jenna, Matthew, Jody and Olivia. Charlene leaves behind a host of other family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her adoring husband, John. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 1st at Restland Funeral Home. The Celebration of her life will be held Monday, November 2nd at 10:00 a.m. presided by her nephew, Greg Isbell, at the Wildwood Chapel on the grounds of Restland Dallas, 13005 Greenville Avenue Dallas, Texas. Interment will immediately follow at Whispering Waters Mausoleum. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
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