Eva Katherine Mangham Isbell

Eva Katherine Mangham Isbell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, and faithful servant, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born May 6, 1937, in Kaufman, Texas, Eva was the daughter of Jewell and Ben Mangham and younger sister of Dell Oree Mangham Chapman. She rode her horse, Tony, to a one-room schoolhouse when she began school and graduated from Kaufman High School, where she played the saxophone in the marching band and competed as a barrel racer. She continued her education earning a scholarship to play in the band at Henderson County Junior College, East Texas State University and Texas Woman's University. Eva graduated from TWU earning a degree in Home Economics. Eva was the first in her family to graduate from college. She would later continue her education as she worked on her Master of Home Economics at TWU. Her career would lead to a lifetime of service, learning, and community involvement.

Eva married the love of her life, Neil Isbell, and together they shared 61 years of devoted partnership filled with faith, adventure, family, and friendship. They raised their beloved daughter, Juliet, and built a life centered on supporting one another, serving their community, and creating cherished memories with family and friends.

Professionally, Eva served as a Home Economist for Texas Electric Service Company, where she combined practical knowledge with a sincere desire to help others improve their homes and daily lives. A woman of many talents and interests, Eva continually challenged herself to learn and grow. She earned her private pilot's license, became a licensed Realtor, and obtained her Amateur Radio Operator (Ham Radio) license. At a time when few women pursued such diverse endeavors, Eva embraced each opportunity with confidence, determination, and curiosity.

Eva had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed traveling, volunteering, and participating in organizations that enriched both her life and the lives of others. She was a faithful member of the Loyalty Sunday School Class of First United Methodist Church in Fort Worth and enjoyed many years of friendship and service through church and community activities. She shared Neil's love of travel and was active in Fort Worth Sister Cities International, helping foster friendships and cultural understanding around the world.

Eva was also an active member of the Fort Worth Woman's Club, where she delighted in showcasing her creativity through beautifully designed tablescapes, themed centerpieces, and decorative exhibits. Friends admired her artistic eye, attention to detail, and ability to make every gathering feel special. She was a proud member of the American Association of University Women, reflecting her lifelong belief in the importance of education, personal growth, and opportunities for women. Her membership in The Ninety-Nines (an international organization of women pilots) epitomized her love of adventure. Also, Eva would eagerly look forward to her weekly Monday night Bible Study Fellowship group. Eva was also a member of several other Fort Worth organizations and activities that focused on the city’s mission of “working together to build a strong community.”

Family was always the center of Eva's life. Her experiences as a high school barrel racer made it especially meaningful to watch and encourage her grandson, Matthew, in his rodeo endeavors. Few things brought her greater joy than seeing him compete and celebrate his accomplishments. She was equally devoted to her granddaughter Elizabeth, sharing a love of basketball and taking tremendous pride in watching her play. Like Neil, Eva rarely missed an opportunity to attend a game, recital, performance, or family celebration, offering unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way. There are many stories that will always remain a secret because “what happened at Nana’s stayed at Nana’s.”

After Neil's passing, Eva continued to inspire her family with her strength, resilience, and enduring faith. In the last year, she made the difficult decision to leave the Fort Worth home she had lovingly shared with her family for 56 years and moved to an independent senior living community. There, she found comfort in being surrounded by many longtime friends from the Loyalty Sunday School Class as well as many from other organizations. Their friendship, companionship, and support became an immeasurable blessing during this season of her life.

A three-time cancer warrior, Eva faced each battle with remarkable courage and grace. During her third and final battle, she was sustained by a close-knit circle of devoted friends and family whose love, prayers, visits, foot massages and encouragement carried her through difficult days. The family is deeply grateful for the compassion and support shown to Eva throughout her journey.

Those who knew Eva will remember her intelligence, warmth, creativity, and adventurous heart. Whether piloting an airplane, decorating a table for a special event, cheering from the stands, or lending a helping hand to a friend, she approached life with enthusiasm and grace. Her faith guided her actions, her generosity touched countless lives, and her example of perseverance and kindness will continue to inspire those who loved her.

Eva was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Neil Isbell; her parents, Jewell and Ben Mangham; and her sister, Dell Oree Mangham Chapman.

She is survived by her daughter, Juliet Allanach and husband, Will; grandchildren, Elizabeth Katherine and Matthew Kimbriel; bonus granddaughter, Chinelo Lucy Ibeh; brother-in-law, Don Isbell; sister-in-law, Susie Isbell; nieces, Phyllis Chapman Bragg (Steve) and Shonna Isbell Whitmore; nephews, Matthew Chapman (Debbie), Darren Isbell, Donnie Isbell (Shelley), and Nathan Isbell (Astin); great-nieces and great-nephews; and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love, encouragement, and friendship.

The family takes comfort in knowing that Eva and Neil are dancing together once again after a lifetime of shared adventures, unwavering devotion, and enduring love. Her legacy lives on through her family, her faith, and the countless lives she touched along the way.

Memorial Service: 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in the Sanctuary of First United Methodist Church Fort Worth with Rev. Mike Marshall officiating.  The graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Terrell, Texas.