Ethel Mae Grisham

Ethel Mae Grisham, 78 of Newburgh, IN, peacefully passed away to her Heavenly home on Sunday, September 29th, surrounded by her loving family. Ethel lived a long, fulfilling life that was defined by her unwavering faith and joy in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ethel was born in Henderson, KY on June 30, 1946 to Junius and Sue Marrett. She graduated from Henderson City High School in 1964 and was known for her incredible work ethic, dedicating many years to Gibbs Die Casting and Kusan, Inc. As a single mother, she tirelessly worked to provide a nurturing, God-centered home for her son, Duane. Later in life, she returned to school with her sister, Kuma, and earned her Associate’s Degree from Ivy Tech while she worked in the Child Care Department at Methodist Hospital in Henderson and loved interacting with the children there. She then enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Customer Service Representative for both AT&T and 5th/3rd Bank in Evansville, where her warm Southern accent and engaging personality made her a favorite among customers until her retirement in 2011.

Family was at the heart of Ethel’s life. She cherished every moment spent with her #1 Grandson, Shane Marrett, and their bond was truly special. They shared countless hours of laughter over the silliest conversations, creating memories that will last a lifetime. One of her fondest recent memories was watching him play his saxophone in the Rose Parade last year as part of the Castle Marching Knights. Though she has left this world, her love and support will forever shine down on him from Heaven.

Ethel was a member of First Assembly of God in Henderson. There, she spent many years teaching Sunday School, performing as the singing narrator in Easter and Christmas plays, and dedicating herself to leading others to Christ. She also served on the board of Harbor House Christian Men’s Center in Henderson for many years. Her compassionate nature and wise, biblically-based advice were a source of comfort to many.

Known for her beautiful singing voice, she was part of a Christian singing trio for many years, performing in churches and events around the tri-state area.

Ethel was also an accomplished cook, and her legendary stuffing, deviled eggs, and desserts will be greatly missed at family gatherings.

In recent years, Ethel and her sister, Kuma Pippin attended Crossroads Christian Church in Newburgh, where she loved seeing her son, Duane, play guitar as part of the Worship Team. Ethel and her sister, Kuma, also shared countless hours together, bonding over their love of singing competition shows.

Ethel was preceded in joining the Lord by her parents Junius and Sue, as well as her older sister, Annette Sanders (the late Roger), and her younger sister, Kuma Pippin (Bill). She now rests in Heaven, joyfully reunited with her family as the mischievous middle sister.

Ethel is survived by her son, Duane Marrett (Carrie) of Newburgh, IN; her beloved grandson, Shane Marrett; and her brother-in-law, Bill Pippin, as well as her niece, Shanna Pippin both of Henderson.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Deaconess Gateway Heart Hospital and Hamilton Pointe for their exceptional care throughout Ethel’s final year.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Tomblinson Funeral Home in Henderson, KY, followed by a service beginning at 2 PM. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Henderson. Pastor Phil Heller will officiate the service. Ethel had a love for flowers and requested that her service be adorned with them. Donations may also be sent to World Changers Church International, KLOVE Radio, or Crossroads Christian Church, Newburgh, IN.

Ethel Mae Grisham will be profoundly missed, but her spirit and the love she shared will forever remain in our hearts.