Board Members

  • Marissa Sexton-Secretary

    Hello my name is Marissa Sexton. I am Gretchen’s middle daughter and proud to be. I have an incredible husband named Shane and we have been married three years. We have two incredible children, Daniel is three and Byrdie is one. I worked at a daycare for almost four years before becoming a stay at home mom in October of 2023. I was on my way to becoming a director, but being at home with my kids is worth so much more. I love to read, take my kids to the zoo, hike, and I recently got back into baking. I got involved in MGR Ministries because I see the passion my mother has for it. Losing my dad was so incredibly difficult, but I can’t even imagine it holds a candle to how I would feel if my husband died. I honestly wouldn’t know what to do, financially or emotionally. Having someone to steer and guide me in the right direction would be such a great help. Seeing my mom be that for other woman is inspiring, and that is why I chose this ministry.

  • Jody Bumgardner

    Jody is married to Jeff and recently celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary. They have four beautiful children. Caleb, Abby, Ella Kate💚, & Ava Drew. Jody is a stay at home mom and enjoys being involved in Jeff’s worship ministry, baking, creating jewelry, and spending time with family. Jeff and Jody served in ministry with Mark and Gretchen in California and have remained close friends for twenty years. Gretchen’s passion to serve others and honor God is contagious. I am grateful to serve alongside her to make an impact in the lives of others and for the Kingdom of God.

  • Malory Northrup

    Hello, I'm Malory Northrup, happily married to Joshua for six wonderful years. Our family of five, including Ethan (8), Allie (4), and Ace (2), resides in Texas where we run our own company, White Felt Casino Events. Outside of work, we cherish moments at parks, kayaking adventures, and traveling, along with hosting lively game nights with loved ones. As a member of MGR Ministries, I'm fueled by a passion for making a positive impact and serving others, inspired by my upbringing as the youngest child of Mark and Gretchen.

  • Melissa Magera

    I’m Melissa Magera and I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Martin for 34 years. Our daughter, Katlin and son-in-love, Hahn have given us our beautiful granddaughter, Lucy Joy. I’ve been a sales consultant with Mary & Martha for almost 8 years. I enjoy running, reading, and bible study. I consider it an honor to be involved with MGR Ministries. My husband received a cancer diagnosis last year, and I realize more than ever the need for support and encouragement during life changing events and seasons of grief. Gretchen is one of the strongest, most committed, loyal, and loving people I know, and I’m excited to be a part of this ministry opportunity the Lord has equipped her for and called her to.

  • Shelby Marquardt

    My name is Shelby Marquardt and I have been married to my husband, Cody Marquardt, for 5 years. I am a photographer and psychology student. In my free time, I love to bake and get outside with my husband and hike or do any outdoor activity. I said ‘yes’ to be on the MGRministries board because I believe there is a need that they fill. I have lost many family members to cancer and watched and felt how deeply grief can wound a person. We were not meant to go through this life alone. MGR Ministries is stepping up and walking alongside those in need of company.

  • Lance Raun

    Lance Raun and his wife, Kim, have been married for 30 years and now reside in Huntsville, Texas. While previously living in El Campo, they raised two daughters and had the privilege of becoming friends with Gretchen and Mark. Lance is a commercial pilot whose hobbies include golf, hunting, and outdoor projects. He is excited to be part of MGR Ministries so he can help carry on Mark Rush’s legacy of spreading God’s abundant love to others.

  • Meagan Rush

    My name is Meagan Rush, and I am the oldest daughter of Mark and Gretchen. I have the awesome privilege of watching my niece and nephew, and I wouldn't say it's a job but a blessing. I volunteer at an Assisted Living Home, and I have a side business called Thirty-One. I love sewing, playing with my "boys" (my dogs Beaux and Luke), doing my nails, and going to the movies. I love traveling to see my family that do not live by me. I have two nieces and three nephews, and love them like they are mine. I try to spend as much time with them as I can. I have always wanted to be in ministry, and couldn't think of one that would mean more to me than my Mom’s. This ministry was formed by my parents, and since my dad isn't here I know my mom is going to do an amazing job reaching those who have been through some very rough times in their life. I want to help her make this ministry all that God has for her and those she ministers to.

  • David Salgado

    My name is David Salgado, and my wife Jill and I have been married for 10 years. We are a blended family with 5 children combined and 3 grandchildren-so far! I have been in the construction industry for 40 years-owning my own company for over 10 years. Mark and Gretchen have been personal friends for 25 years, and Jill and I were blessed to have Mark marry us. When Gretchen asked me to help with MGR Ministries the obvious answer for me was yes! The need for God based grief counseling and outreach from a first hand point of view is invaluable and carrying on the mission that Mark and Gretchen started to help others is my small way of honoring Mark (and others) for their love and faithfulness to God’s kingdom.