Mary Lucile Baxter

Mary Lucile (Goodmanson) Baxter passed peacefully into the presence of her Savior on July 21, 2025. She was 87 years old.

Marylu was born on October 24, 1937, in Ireton, Iowa, to Ernest and Lucile Goodmanson. The fifth of six children, she grew up in a household full of love, music, and laughter. She graduated from high school in Iowa, where she was a proud member of the girls’ basketball team that went undefeated her senior year and competed in the Iowa State Finals. She was also honored with the “Miss Betty Crocker Award,” played trombone in the school band, and sang in the choir—gifts she would use throughout her life.

On January 3, 1956, Marylu married the love of her life, Robert Baxter, while he was in seminary. Together, they shared 69 beautiful years of marriage and ministry. Their life of service led them to Presbyterian churches across Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Kansas, South Carolina, Alabama, and even abroad in Australia and New Zealand. No matter where they were called, Marylu served with grace, warmth, and unwavering dedication.

Marylu was known for her extraordinary hospitality and musical talents. She loved singing in the choir and performing duets and specials with Pastor Bob—many of which were hymns he wrote. In fact, their love story began when he preached at her home church in Ireton and later wrote a hymn just for her to sing.

She had a practical and heartfelt understanding of her calling as a pastor’s wife. When once asked in a church interview what her role would be, she replied frankly, “My role is to take care of him so that he can take care of the church as your pastor.” That commitment to support, serve, and love others radiated through all she did—especially through her famous Sunday night dinners, which drew friends, congregants, and visitors alike. Her homemade cinnamon rolls and pies became legendary in every church they served.

Marylu was instrumental in founding the “Golden Age Club” at First Presbyterian Church—a ministry that brought senior members of the church and surrounding community together for monthly meals and fellowship. She deeply valued every gathering and made each person feel seen, heard, and loved.

She adored her family, and nothing made her happier than gathering around the dining room table with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. So important was that time together, she requested an addition to their home just to make sure there was space for everyone. She loved cheering from the sidelines at her grandchildren’s games and crafting with friends—quilting and opening craft stores in several states, creating friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Marylu had a playful sense of humor, a generous heart, and a knack for connecting with people. She often held garage sales not to profit, but to give away items to those who needed them more. She was a passionate fan of the Kansas City Royals and carried that enthusiasm in everything she did.

Marylu was preceded in death by her parents and her five brothers and sisters. She is survived by her beloved husband, Pastor Bob; her children Mark Baxter (Janet), Mary Warner (Kent), and Jim Baxter (Wendy); 10 grandchildren—Daniel Baxter, Kathleen Ziegler, Jennifer McDonald, Matthew Warner, Marie Warner, Luke Warner, Aaron Baxter, Sarah Tompkins, Jonathan Baxter, and Mary-Lynn Lynch; and 24 great-grandchildren who were the joy of her later years.

Marylu Baxter lived a life full of faith, love, laughter, and service. She welcomed everyone with open arms and left a legacy of kindness, generosity, and joy that will live on in all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to the hospitality ministries of New Hope PCA. Donations may be made payable to New Hope PCA or placed in envelopes provided by Penwell Gabel Funeral Home.

Services: Family and friends are invited to gather in memory of Marylu’s life Sunday, August 3 at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 13310 S. Black Bob Rd. Olathe, KS 66062. Visitation will be at 4:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 5:00 pm.