Marsha Rosalind Jose

Marsha Rosalind (Howell) Jose, age 72, passed peacefully on November 23, 2025, at City of Hope Hospital, with her family’s hands laid lovingly upon her. We celebrate her life in remembrance of a remarkable woman who lived with deep faith, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those she loved.

Born on May 6, 1953, in East St. Louis, Illinois and grew up in McLeansboro. She attended Eastern Illinois University for one year and met Dennis Jose, her beloved husband of 49 years. Marsha continued her education at Westmont College and Mt. San Antonio College in California, earning her Associate in Science degree and becoming a registered nurse.

Marsha began her nursing career in the ICU and CCU, caring for patients for eight years before dedicating herself fully to raising her three children. She later returned to the medical field as a drug study coordinator, specializing in autoimmune diseases, where her skill and care made a lasting impact.

A gifted creator, Marsha poured her love into cooking, gardening, sewing, and beading — always eager to master a new craft. Her creativity was a way she expressed her affection for others, whether through handmade gifts or the cherished yearly photo books she created for her grandchildren, preserving countless family memories.

In retirement, Marsha embraced adventure, enjoying Viking cruises throughout Europe. But her favorite place was anywhere her family gathered. Marsha loved hosting holidays filled with beauty and homemade meals. She was her children’s and grandchildren’s greatest cheerleader — present at concerts, games, recitals, and achievements of every kind.

Marsha is survived by her devoted husband, Dennis Jose, her brother, Bob Howell and his wife Karla. She leaves behind her loving children Hillary, Tess, and Ben, whom she treasured beyond measure; her adored sons-in-law Adam and Brandon; and her cherished grandchildren Luella, Jacob, Gwendolyn, Shiloh, Joshua, Roderick, and Genevieve, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Marsha will be remembered for her generous spirit, her deep love for family, her creative gifts, and the way she cherished her grandchildren. She lived as a faithful servant of the Lord, a woman whose kindness radiated outward and touched everyone she met. She will always be on our minds, and forever in our hearts.