Gayle Irene Marcum

Gayle Irene Marcum (née Shackleford), age 60, of Clarksville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 9, 1965, in Dayton, Ohio, Gayle was the beloved daughter of Curtis and Georgia Shackleford. She grew into a woman whose kindness, determination, and sharp sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Gayle earned her bachelor’s degree in business from Park University and built a distinguished career in contracts, serving in roles with the Department of Defense before later working in healthcare leadership as a director. During her own cancer journey, Gayle became a passionate advocate for others facing similar battles, helping guide individuals toward treatment options through both modern and natural approaches to healing. Gayle had a deep passion for healthy living and loved researching natural remedies, wellness practices, and creating homemade products and cosmetics to share with family and friends. She also found great joy in cooking, especially preparing her famous potato salad, butterscotch lush, and sherbet punch for loved ones. Always inventive, Gayle enjoyed discovering healthier alternatives to sweets and sharing them with those around her. More than anything, Gayle treasured time with her family. She loved vacationing with her family and beloved furry companions in Sanibel Island and rarely missed an opportunity to support her children and grandchildren at sporting events, award ceremonies, school plays, and life’s many milestones.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Jay Marcum; her children, Kalen (Amy) Marcum and Gabrielle (Thomas) Marcum; and her cherished grandchildren, Robert Joseph, Emma, and Abigail. She is also survived by her beloved dogs, Violet, Daisy, and Cody, and her cat, Tit Tat.

She is preceded in death by her father Curtis Shackleford, mother Georgia Shackleford, and brother Larry Shackleford.

Family to receive friends Friday, May 15, 2026 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm with service to follow at the Tobias Funeral Home-Beavercreek Chapel.

Gayle will be remembered for her strength, generosity, resilience, and unwavering love for her family. A few paragraphs cannot accurately describe the amazing person Gayle was. She will be

deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her.