Obituary - Joseph Dale Marlow

  Joseph Dale Marlow

Joseph Dale Marlow, age 93, longtime Educator/ Superintendent in area schools districts of Hume, Meta, Bronaugh, and Dadeville, passed away at 1:58 p.m. Monday, January 18, 2016 at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada, MO. He was born May 24, 1922 in Lockwood, MO, the next to youngest of ten children born to the union of Joseph William and Gertie Mable (Polston) Marlow. On June 3, 1947 he was united in marriage to Martha Leone (New) Marlow and she survives of Nevada. They met after becoming acquainted when his cousin married her sister. Their relationship began while he was working as a garage mechanic in Liberal, MO.

After high school graduation, Joe moved to the St. Louis area where he worked as an aircraft welder until he was drafted into the United States Army. Upon completion of his military duty, he returned to the Liberal area where his parents had moved. He attended college on the GI bill and made education his vocation until his retirement. He began first teaching music in the Hume school district, then Metz for three years, then as Superintendent of the Bronaugh district for six years, before spending eighteen years in Dadeville as their Superintendent. He was a longtime member of the Lockwood United Methodist Church in Lockwood; a greater than 50 year member of Masonic Lodge #87 in Liberal; member of the Eastern Star in Jerico Springs and Lamar; and participated in the American Legion in Greenfield. He was also a member of MSTA School Administrators. He was an accomplished violin player and spent much time in volunteer work associated with music and many various civic organizations. He also loved to garden when time allowed.

Survivors in addition to his wife include his children, Betty Jo Laflen and Jerry M. of Moundville; Joseph Dale Marlow, Jr. and Tammy of Springfield; Becky Jane Toler and Kenneth of Bolivar; Martin Leon Marlow and Beth of Springfield; grandchildren, Joseph Laflen and Adrian; Jerry Laflen and Jill; Russ D. Marlow and Lindsey; Brian Toler; Kendra Young and Zachary; Brandon Toler and Chelsea; Krista Stander and Jordan; Thomas Marlow; and Vance Marlow; nineteen great grandchildren; one brother, Howard Marlow and wife Helen; one sister-in-law, Bobby Marlow; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other extended family members and many friends. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, eight siblings; and his daughter, Barbara Jean Irwin.

Funeral services for Joseph Dale Marlow will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 22, 2016 at the Lockwood United Methodist Church in Lockwood with Pastor Travis James officiating. Interment will follow in the Lockwood Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled from `10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. just prior to the service also at the church.

Those who wish may contribute in his memory to the Lockwood United Methodist Church or the Barone Alzheimer’s Care Center in care of Ferry Funeral Home.