Marlys Newcomb, 88

Marlys Rush Newcomb’s Lutheran faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her with compassion and purpose. She touched many lives, always striving to meet their needs with grace and kindness. Marlys met the Lord on Sept. 18, 2026. She spent the last week of her life surrounded by family and friends, laughing and reminiscing.

She was born in Sioux Falls, S.D., on Feb. 28, 1938, shortly before her twin sister, Marilyn. Marlys was the second of six children born to Glenn and Thelma Rush.

Bob Newcomb entered Marlys’ life in 1957 while they were attending Augustana College. They were married June 3, 1958, in Sioux Falls, S.D., and celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary shortly before Bob passed away in 2024.

Marlys worked and modeled with her twin sister throughout high school. Once married, she worked in administrative capacities supporting Bob’s career at congregations in California and Idaho; camping ministries in Southern California and Lutherhaven Ministries in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; counseling practices in Hayden and Coeur d’Alene; and she helped Bob open a North Idaho office for Lutheran Community Services Northwest in Coeur d’Alene, where she especially loved helping with adoptions. 

Singing brought her joy. It started with her sisters, then choirs at school and church, then leading children’s choirs. She sang solo at numerous weddings and memorial services, and she enjoyed her years with The Sweet Adelines. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Marlys played fastpitch softball in high school and loved church league softball. Her favorite sport was downhill skiing, where she sang her way down the mountain. She pulled her kids out of school to ski when “necessary,” which became more common when her grandkids were young. Being on the lake brought her joy, whether boating, pulling skiers, or skiing herself. Marlys loved to watch sports, especially the Mariners, Zags, and Seahawks.

She was deeply proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always doing what she could to support and uplift them. Marlys poured her energy into her community as well — leading numerous 4-H projects, teaching and encouraging countless snow and water skiers, hosting gatherings that brought people together, and serving faithfully on boards and committees. Her generosity of spirit and willingness to give her time made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Marlys was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Thelma Rush; her husband, Bob Newcomb; two sisters; one brother; and three brothers-in-law. She is survived by her daughter, Jody (Dan) of Spokane, Wash.; son Jeff (Christina) of Hayden Lake, Idaho; son Jon of Spokane, Wash.; 10 grandchildren, Ashley (Jack), Tim (Alisyn), Josh (Tori), Lydia, Mary (Anna), and Ellie; seven great-grandchildren, Emma, Daniel, Cole, Stella, Ruby, Charlie, and Jade; two sisters, Judy Monson of Spokane, Wash., and Linda Sanden of Sioux Falls, S.D.; five sisters-in-law; five brothers-in-law; and numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

A celebration of life will take place Monday, Oct. 5, at 2 p.m. at Lutherhaven in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, with casual attire at her request. Drop-off at the chapel and shuttle service from parking will be available. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to the Lutherhaven Ministries Bob Newcomb Leadership Fund at Lutherhaven.com or by mail at 3258 Lutherhaven Road, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

The family thanks the staff at Orchard Crest in Spokane Valley, Wash., for their dedicated compassion and care.

Please visit Marlys’ online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com. A link to view her service will be posted here the day after the service.