MYRTLE ELIZABETH 'BETH' BLAGRAVE
1924 — 2026
Myrtle Elizabeth 'Beth' Blagrave, a longtime Madison County resident, was born on August 26, 1924, in North Zulch, Texas and passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 20, 2026. She lived 101 ½ years rooted in faith, family and helpfulness to others.
Beth’s God given gift was making folks feel welcome - especially at her dining table, where everyone left with full bellies and warm hearts. Born to Myrtle Burr McNair and Joseph C. McNair, Sr., she was the youngest of five children. Beth shared more than seventy-eight blessed years of marriage with her husband, Reuben Ashley, and together, they raised three sons and took great pride and pleasure in their growing family.
Beth was a devoted Christian, a member of United Methodist Women, Iola Eastern Star, and active with her church families of St. Timothy’s UMC, Houston, Zion UMC, Iola, and First Methodist Church, Madisonville, Texas.
Beth was preceded in death by her husband, Reuben Ashley and their sons, Danny and Dale, who now rejoice as they welcome her home.
Beth is survived by her son, Dennis (Tamela) Blagrave; grandchildren, Daniel (Stacey) Blagrave, Leah (Charlie) Beach, and Beth (Dax) Middlebrooks; eleven great-grandchildren and thirteen great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous other extended family and loving friends. Beth leaves a legacy of love and joy in each soul who has had the pleasure of crossing her path.
A funeral service for Beth, officiated by Reverend Jim Jackson, was held at the First Methodist Church in Madisonville, Texas on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 2 p.m. Burial followed in the Willowhole Cemetery in North Zulch, Texas.
Pallbearers: Ryan Blagrave William Hicks, Charles Beach, Pat Coveney, Warren Cohn, Allen Rustay.
Honorary Pallbearers: Daniel Blagrave, Richey Goodridge, Jerry Reed, Kenneth Bounds, David Stiver, Dax Middlebrooks.
Final arrangement for Beth Blagrave were under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas — A Walters Family Funeral Home.
