1932-2026
Mary Gilbreath, age 93, passed away on March 17, 2026, in her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 13, 1932, in Yell County, Arkansas, to Arthur and Zeffie Lenderman. Mary grew up on a cotton farm in Lincoln County, Arkansas, where she learned the values of hard work, faith, and family that shaped her entire life.
After graduating from high school, Mary met the love of her life, Walter Gilbreath. They were married on May 16, 1956. Shortly after their wedding, Walter received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army and surrendered to preach, beginning a lifetime of ministry that Mary faithfully supported. As both a nurse and a pastor’s wife, Mary devoted herself to caring for others with compassion, grace, and unwavering dedication.
Together, Mary and Walter raised four children and served in ministry for 57 years before retiring. Mary was deeply loved by all who knew her, remembered for her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Walter Gilbreath; her parents, Arthur and Zeffie Lenderman; three brothers, Leroy Lenderman, E.O. Lenderman, and Junior Lenderman; and one son‑in‑law, Joe McGough.
Mary is survived by one sister, Lois (Charles) Milligan of Dumas, Arkansas and her four children: Paul (Serina) Gilbreath of Mabank, Texas; Ann McGough of Mineola, Texas; John (Kate) Gilbreath of Jacksonville, Arkansas; and Glenda (Bert) Edwards of Longview, Texas
She is also survived by nine grandchildren, fourteen great‑grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends who will cherish her memory.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 21, at 11 am at First Baptist Church in Tatum, Texas. All Texas family and friends are encouraged to attend.
A funeral service will follow on Monday, March 23, at 11 am at Anderson Chapel Baptist Church in Garrett Bridge, Arkansas, with burial at Tyro Cemetery in Tyro, Arkansas, under the direction of Griffin Funeral Home of Dumas, Arkansas. All Arkansas family and friends are encouraged to attend.
Pallbearers are her grand-sons and great grand-sons; Jay McGough, Greg McGough, Cody Edwards, Cody Bias, JD McGough, and Brody Gilbreath.
Mary’s life was a testament to faith, love, and service. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.
