We were saddened to learn of the recent death of Marilyn Canup, a graduate and employee of Ambassador College, and a long-time member of GCI’s congregation in Big Sandy, Texas.
Marilyn was born on March 1, 1941 to Arta and Susie Russell, and grew up in Angelina County, Texas. She attended Ambassador College in California where she graduated in 1963. When Ambassador opened its Big Sandy campus, she journeyed back to Texas to work as the college’s first campus librarian. She loved bookkeeping and worked in that field for many years. After retiring, she continued that passion, serving as treasurer for the GCI congregation in Big Sandy (New Beginnings Fellowship). She also served in the congregation’s ministries to young adults and Silver Ambassadors.
Marilyn served the Big Sandy community as a member and officer of the Big Sandy Ministerial Alliance, treasurer of the Agape House Ministries (overseen by the Alliance), and as a volunteer at the Big Sandy City Hall. Marilyn was chosen as Big Sandy Woman of the Year in 2014.
Marilyn is survived by her husband of 49 years, Dwayne Canup; their children Leron Canup (Amy) and Shana Curd (Paul); five grandchildren; her sister Judith Omasta (wife of GCI elder Larry Omasta); and her brother-in-law, GCI pastor Tom Pickett. Marilyn was preceded in death by her sister Adrienne Pickett (Tom’s wife); nephew Andrew Pickett (Tom and Adrienne’s son); and her brother Thad Russell.
A celebration of life/memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on October 7 at McWhorter Funeral Home in Gilmer, Texas. A potluck meal will follow at New Beginnings Fellowship Church in Big Sandy.
Cards may be sent to:
Dwayne Canup
PO Box 777
Big Sandy, TX 75755
Dear Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss and mourning.
Marilyn’s lifetime service is an inspiration to all of us. Her example honors the Lord and the church we are privileged to be a part. Well done, you good and faithful servant! We look forward to spending eternity with all our loved ones. Death can only separate us for a while. The REAL life in its fullness is yet to come.
In Him,
Santiago and Elke
So sorry for your loss of Mrs. Canup. Growing up in the Big Sandy congregation I always saw Mrs. Canup as a mainstay. You will be missed Marilyn Canup.
We are saddened to hear of your loss. May God, through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, keep you and your family snuggled in His all loving and compassionate arms during this time – and always.
In Christ
Grace Covenant Fellowship
Birmingham, Alabama
Dear Dwayne and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss of Marilyn. I well remember you all from our Big Sandy days. You were always very special to my family back then.
May God’s blessings be with you during the challenging days ahead.
Don & Alix Engle
Dwayne my friend, Sandy and I are both sadden by your loss. Time has a way of slipping by, in many ways it seems like just yesterday. I think of the many times we were all together celebrating our life in Christ.
Sandy and I are both doing well in the Orr area. May the grace of our loving God comfort and strengthen you and your family. Our prayers are with you.
Tom and Sandy Kennebeck