Marie Jewell's Obituary
Ilona Marie Jewell, known for her profound faith, lifelong service, and unshakable commitment to her family, went home to be with her Savior on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the age of 80.
Marie leaves behind a legacy of faith, endurance and compassion. Her life was a vibrant "story" of grace that she was always eager to share with the next generation.
Origin Story
Born in Lovington, New Mexico, to Ezra and Ollie Mae Garner, Marie was the ninth of twelve children in a large, blended family. Her childhood was shaped by a home full of strong women—her mother and grandmother—who ensured that she was in church from the time she was an infant. Marie often laughed about how she was "lap-seated" in the family car with ten others just to make it to Sunday service. She grew up in Midland, Texas, graduating from Midland Lee High School in 1964.
Foundation of Faith
After making professions of faith at ages eight and twelve, she wrestled with the assurance of her salvation for years. It wasn’t until her early twenties, through the mentorship of John and Marian Barkman, that she found true peace in her faith—a peace that eventually led her to move to Dallas in 1967 to attend Dallas Bible College.
Life of Service
Marie’s professional life was a testament to her heart for service. She spent 17 years with the Baptist General Convention of Texas and dedicated herself to organizations such as Texas Baptist Men and the American Fellowship of Cowboy Churches. Most recently, she served the Cowboy Church of Ellis County from 2009 until 2022.
Beyond her career, Marie was a tireless volunteer. She served in nearly every capacity of church life—from teaching Sunday school to leading Bible studies for all ages. Her ministry extended to the Christian Women’s Job Corps, Samaritan’s Purse, Disabled Veterans of America, and acting as a home health caregiver, always seeking to be the hands and feet of Christ.
Marie famously believed that "nowhere in Scripture are we told we can retire from being a disciple". Even in her later years, she intentionally changed where she sat in the worship center just to meet and welcome new people.
Her Greatest "Story"
Marie’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her husband, Everett (Bud) Harvey Jewell, whom she married in 2022 and then moved to Poolville, TX to enjoy a season of love and companionship.
She is also survived by her daughter, Dana Perkins (Jeremy); and her son, Eric Vandivort (Billie). Marie’s beautiful example of motherhood marked by deep conviction, tireless dedication and faithful commitment to Christ inspired her children to live fully, love passionately and serve to the glory of God.
However, her most prized and passionate roll was as “Grandma Ree" to her five granddaughters: Emma, Audrey, McKinzey, Amber, and Isabell. She was always the steady north star and prayer warrior. She made it her life-long commitment to share her own story of faith at every opportunity. Whether it was late-night little girl sleepovers, crafting for days (even with glitter), and watching the latest children’s movies, the conversation always returned to Jesus. Marie’s love for her children and granddaughters was active, protective, and selfless. She was determined that they would all know the goodness and faithfulness of God through her own testimony.
Marie is also survived by her siblings Jo Berkoff, Cheryl Powell, Benny Garner, Buddy Garner, and Bryce Garner. She was preceded in death by her parents and six siblings.
Services
Family and friends are invited to honor Marie’s life during the following services:
· Graveside Service: To be held at Restland Memorial Park of Dallas (13005 Greenville Ave). Pastor Chris Maddox will officiate. (Friday, March 20, 2026 | 9:00am) .
· Memorial Service: A celebration of her life and ministry will take place at the Cowboy Church of Ellis County in Waxahachie, TX. (Friday, March 20, 2026 | 1:00pm) .
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marie’s memory to the Ellis County Christian Women’s Job Corps, a cause very dear to her heart. · Website: https://elliscwjc.life/
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — Philippians 1:6
"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." — Isaiah 46:4
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