Marie M. McCauley Gilbreath Willis

Marie M. McCauley Gilbreath Willis lived 105 incredible years filled with love, laughter, and a competitive spirit that never faded. Just days before her peaceful passing on January 29, 2025, in Tulsa, OK, she did what she did best-ran the table at game night, proving once again that she was a force to be reckoned with.

Born on August 30, 1919, in Willow Springs, MO, Marie grew up in Springfield, where she met her first husband, Carl McCauley, in the church choir. Singing brought her joy, but so did adventure, resilience, and an unwavering love for her family.

She was the beloved mother of Nancy Endicott (Lanny) and Mary Ann Walker (Steven), and a cherished mother-in-law to Carol McCauley. Marie's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Luke Endicott (Tammy), Timothy Endicott (Betsy), Tammi Lahr (Stevan), Melissa Naga (Harold), Jeffry Walker, Jennifer McCauley, and Pamela McCauley. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren: Riley Martin, Isabel Endicott, Jesse Martin, Ethan, Ember, Emryn, Leo, Henry and Annabelle Endicott, Taryn, Brynn and Adelyn Lahr, Hayley, Ethan, Zachary and Abigail Naga, Nathaniel, Allison, Rachel, and Levi Walker.

She was preceded in death by her son, David McCauley; her husbands, Carl McCauley, Jess Gilbreath, and Gene Willis; and her siblings, Louise Rood and Dr. Herbert Madaus.

A lifelong lover of games, Marie played pinochle, dominos, and cards into her final days. She was a dedicated member of Southern Hills Baptist Church, where she served as a church secretary and was a member of a Bunco group. She had a passion for reading, estate sales, fishing, and traveling. When life handed her challenges, she met them with confidence and persistence-whether taking over her late husband's business or starting anew after loss.

After moving to Tulsa following the passing of her husband, Marie thrived, living with her daughter for 30 years and making a home filled with family, faith, and endless game nights. She kept her sharp memory until the very end, always knowing exactly who everyone was-especially when it was time to keep score.

Marie played life like she played every game-with skill, laughter, and determination. She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her wit, wisdom, and unwavering spirit.