Marvin Northcutt, 85

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marvin Andrew Northcutt Junior, who left us on March 15, 2025 after a courageous battle with an extended illness. Born on Jan. 5, 1940 in Ringling, Oklahoma, Marvin was the eldest of six children. He lived a life rich with purpose, love, and service to others. He was a devoted son to Marvin and Geraldine Northcutt and was preceded in death by his loving parents, his siblings Rebecca Gunion and James Northcutt, and his son-in-law David Johnson.

Marvin’s journey began at Oklahoma City University, where he met the love of his life, Glenda Richardson, in 1959. The couple married on Aug. 29, 1960, in Shattuck, Oklahoma, and their union blossomed into a beautiful family. Marvin is survived by his beloved wife, Glenda, their daughter Andrea Johnson of Geneseo, New York, and son Marv Northcutt and his wife Jennifer of Redmond, Oregon. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Sam Johnson, Lydia Johnson, and Lindsay Northcutt, bringing joy and laughter into their lives. He is also survived by his siblings Jerry Northcutt, Debbie Steele and Brenda Northcutt White.

Marvin's dedication to his faith led him to pursue an education that would prepare him for a life in Christian ministry. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Oklahoma City University and later received a Master of Divinity in Theology from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. His early pastoral career began in Oklahoma, where he occasionally preached at his local church, Douglass Boulevard UMC as a highschooler. He then served as a student pastor in Dale, Verden, and Hugo Oklahoma, then Soules Chapel near Gilmer, Texas.

Marvin served as a pastor in various locations, including St. Ignatius, Arlee, Dixon, Hamilton, Laurel and Kalispell. His leadership extended beyond individual congregations when he became a district superintendent for the United Methodist Yellowstone Conference, covering parts of Montana and Wyoming. After retiring in 1998, Marvin continued to serve churches as an interim minister in Plains, Paradise and Polson. His passion for helping others was evident in his involvement in initiating the Stephen Ministry program in Kalispell, which provides support and care to others. Marvin and Glenda resided in Kalispell for 31 years.

Marvin was not only a dedicated pastor and gifted preacher, but also a compassionate and sensitive individual with an unwavering gift for listening. He encouraged collaboration and problem-solving, building strong interpersonal relationships and fostering a spirit of peace among those he served. He had an uncanny ability to see humor in many situations, helping others find joy and laughter even in difficult times. His legacy is one of Christ-like love.

Beyond his Christian ministry, Marvin was actively involved in his community. He found joy in hiking, biking and golfing. He developed an interest in tennis during his retirement years, spending winters in Arizona. Marvin loved attending his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and was also an avid reader. Travels to the Holy Land, as well as to England and Scotland on a John Wesley tour with Glenda, enriched their lives.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Grants Pass church families of Bethany Presbyterian Church and Newman UMC Congregation as well as to the many church members from previous congregations served for their prayerful support. Special thanks are also due to the staff of the Asante Spears Cancer Center for their compassionate and skilled care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marvin's honor to Newman United Methodist Church, located at 132 NE B Street, Grants Pass, Oregon 97526, or to Intermountain, a nonprofit agency that offers hope and healing, at 3240 Dredge Dr., Helena, MT 59602.

Marvin Andrew Northcutt Junior leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and a deep commitment to serving others. He will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and the profound impact he made on all who knew him. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all the lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.