Lena Joyce ‘Dot’ Gulley, 88, of Marion, passed away peacefully at 10:49 a.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Rolling Meadows Health & Rehabilitation Center in La Fontaine. She was born in Ewing, Kentucky, on April 6, 1937, to William and Nina Cooper. On March 31, 1956, she married Raymond A. Gulley.
Lena worked for many years in Food Service with Marion Community Schools and a Girl Scout summer camp, where she was known for her work ethic, kindness, and her genuine care for the youth she served.
Lena found joy in sewing projects, clogging and helping others. She served as a Girl Scout and 4-H leader. Time with friends and family meant everything to her. She and her husband opened their home and hearts to young people who needed a safe place. Anyone who knew Lena knows she lived her Christian values and expressed her love and compassion through generous acts of service.
Lena is survived by her son, Troy Gulley of Marion, IN; her daughter, Christine ‘Chris’ Leahy of Denver, CO; her granddaughter, Heather (Julian) Martin of Marion, IN; great-grandsons Anthony and Andrew, and grandsons Connor and Devon Leahy; and several other beloved extended family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 64 years, Raymond ‘Allen’ Gulley; her daughter, Rhonda Gulley; and her brother, Ken Cooper.
Honoring Lena’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral service.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memorial contributions may be directed to any youth organization or animal organization, causes close to Lena’s heart.
Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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