Edna Jo Markham

In loving memory of Edna Jo Markham, who passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, surrounded by family after battling cancer with incredible bravery and grace. Edna was born on September 15, 1944, in Lufkin, Texas, to William Paul and Johnnie Kathleen Allen, where she grew up exploring, learning and leading. Edna is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Kathleen Allen, and her brother, Gene Paul Allen. She is survived by her devoted and adoring husband of over 60 years, Pat Markham, with whom she built a beautiful life filled with love and unconditional support. A Christmas wedding on December 19,1965, blossomed into a family that included their children, Michael Markham, and Jennifer VanHaverbeke and her husband Andy. Edna's spirit and spunk lives on through her sister-in-law Becky Allen, and her grandchildren, Juhney, Reese, Gage, Hope, and Maci, her many nieces and nephews, and a multitude of loyal friends. A proud graduate of Lufkin High School in 1962, Edna was crowned her high school's sweetheart more than once, and was known for her spirit as a cheerleader and certainly her skill on the tennis court. It was at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where she met her forever love, Pat, and began a life that would take them all across the country through Pat's military service. Edna was the heart of her home, a commendable military wife who maintained stability and warmth through her husband's tours of duty in Vietnam, and assignments across Tennessee, Texas, Michigan, California, North Carolina, and Nebraska. She excelled for over 30 years as a preschool teacher, where no song or costume was too silly, nor any student ever unimportant. An active member of the Methodist church, Edna dedicated her time to Vacation Bible Schools and Community Care Clubs. Her passion for life and adventure was evident in her love of camping, fishing, and hiking with her family, where she believed that food and coffee always tasted best under the open sky. Her flower and vegetable gardens added to her love for nature, and with any abundance, she generously shared with neighbors. A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, May 1st, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at the First Methodist Church-Willis, located at 200 N. Thomason St., Willis, TX 77378. Her family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to any cancer-fighting organization of your choice, honoring Edna and the countless others who face this battle with courage. Edna Jo Markham's memory will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends, an enduring reminder of deep love, hearty laughter, and a life well-lived.