Lucy Josephine Gabel

Lucy "Josephine" Gabel of St. James, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 94. She was born on February 5, 1931, in Edgar Springs, Missouri, to the late Clayton and Ona (Freeman) Black. On June 23, 1955, Josephine was united in marriage to Lavern Gabel, and together they were blessed with two children. Josephine was a devoted member of Flag Springs Church. She had a gift for quilting, and her handmade heirloom quilts remain cherished treasures to all who received them. She also loved yard sales, thrift shops, antique stores, and auctions, often finding old or worn pieces of furniture that she joyfully refinished and gave new life. Before moving to town, Josephine and Laverne made their home on a farm outside Newburg, Missouri where she became well known for her large and beautiful garden. She generously shared its bounty with family, friends, and neighbors, and carefully canned much of the harvest so her family could enjoy the fruits of her labor all year long. She delighted in attending gospel singings and found joy in life's simple pleasures. Most of all, Josephine cherished her family-gathering for meals, holidays, and time spent together. Lucy Josephine Gabel is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Lavern Gabel of the home; children, Jane Davis, of St. James, MO, and Paul Gabel, of Houston, MO; grandchildren, Amanda Stirling (John) of Volga, SD, and Andrea Moshier (Derek) Salem, MO; 7 great-grandchildren, 13 great-great-grandchildren; a host of extended family and friends. In addition to her parents Clayton and Ona Black, she was preceded in death by her foster parents, Wilford and Laura Mace; grandson, Skyler Gabel; son-in-law, Ed Davis; and granddaughter-in-law, Hannah McDowell; brothers, Clyde, Charlie, Thurman, Bill, and Carl Black. Funeral services for Josephine will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 11:00AM at the St. James Chapel of the James & Gahr Mortuary with Pastor Gary Bartle officiating. Interment will follow at Ozark Memorial Gardens. Visitation for family and friends will be on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 5-7PM. Memorials are suggested to the Flag Springs Church/ or Phelps Health Hospice, cards are available at all James & Gahr locations.