Lena Mae (Varble) Markham

Lena Mae Markham

OTTERVILLE – Lena Mae Markham, 83, died unexpectedly at 10:32 p.m., Sunday, August 10, 2025 at High Point Residence in Jerseyville.

She was born in Carrollton, Illinois on December 3, 1941, the daughter of the late Gearold and Emma Marie (Calvin) Varble.

A 1959 graduate of Southwestern High School, Lena went on to attend Kitzmiller’s Beauty School in Alton, beginning a lifelong career that would become one of her greatest joys. She was the proud owner and operator of Lena’s Beauty Shop in Otterville since 1969, where she built countless friendships and served her community with warmth, skill, and a welcoming smile.

She married Gary Dean Markham on October 29, 1960 in Jacksonville, and together they raised five sons. Over the course of their 55-year marriage, they shared many wonderful memories until his death on May 24, 2016.

Faith was central to Lena’s life. She was a devoted member of Otterville Baptist Church, where she gave of her time, talents, and heart in every way imaginable. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, like picking pecans, spending time with loved ones, and above all, cherishing her family.

Surviving are her five sons, Rick (Sylvia) Markham of Bethalto, Rocky (Jodi) Markham of Jerseyville, Rodney “Rod” Markham of Otterville, Richard Markham of Jerseyville, and Randy Markham of Jerseyville; seven grandchildren; a sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Greg Short of Jerseyville; and a brother-in-law, Clifford Ruyle of Jerseyville.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Letha Fricker, Donna Pickett, and Shirley Ruyle.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11 a.m., Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. Her brother-in-law, Greg Short, will officiate. Burial will follow at Noble Cemetery in Otterville.

Memorials may be given to Otterville Baptist Church.
 

Memories may be shared with the family at www.crawfordfunerals.com

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