Geneva Coursey McCulley

Geneva Pearl Coursey entered this world at Devol, Oklahoma, on March 7, 1917; the seventh child of Lonnie and Pearl Coursey. As a bright, observant child Geneva particularly enjoyed learning and musical expression. At an early age, she surrendered her heart to Jesus Christ and developed a strong Christian character, which would bless her marriage, family and friends in the years to come.

As a child of the Great Depression, she learned the value of a simple lifestyle and became fascinated with the field of ‘home economics’, which included learning to make her own clothing. Geneva was a member of the National Honor Society, and was graduated from Devol High School with honors in 1935. She worked her way through college and was graduated from the University of Oklahoma at Norman in 1940, with a Bachelor Of Science degree; the first woman in her family to graduate from college. Geneva became a teacher in the public school system.

In 1943, Geneva married Murray McCulley, a sailor stationed aboard the U.S.S. Indianapolis. Contributing to the war effort, she helped to build combat planes at Douglas Aircraft at the Long Beach, California plant. Geneva and Murray were blessed with a son, Robert, and a daughter, Elaine. Murray was recalled to active duty during the Korean conflict and the family was stationed in the Hawaiian Islands. Following a release from active duty, the family settled in Southern California.

In the years that followed, Geneva raised her family, taught in the public schools, created clothing designs, led civic choral groups, contributed to the ministry of music and mentored younger women through the churches her family attended. When her own children were married, she relished the role of ‘Grandma’, sharing by her personal example, wisdom and skills to help the next generation on their way.

Following Murray’s death in 1985, Geneva moved to Hemet, California, where she continued to influence and encourage friends and acquaintances. On July 27th, 2014, Geneva quietly passed from this life, into the presence of her Lord, as she slept.

Geneva is survived by her son Robert, daughter-in-law Donna, son-in-law Jon, 6 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and sister-in-law Mary Ruth. She is also survived by a host of family and friends who hold her memory dearly. A passage from the ancient Biblical book of Proverbs, Chapter 31, comes to mind: “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness; Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all’”. (Verses 25-29, ESV)

Thanks Mom, for sharing yourself with us – we look forward to joining you one of these days.