In Loving Memory of Pastor Gwen Tackett

February 10, 1952 – February 22, 2026

It is with deep sadness and hearts full of gratitude that the NAME family announces the passing of Pastor Gwen Tackett, a beloved servant of God, a faithful minister of the Gospel, and a tireless advocate for marriages and families. Pastor Gwen went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

A Life Poured Out in Service

Pastor Gwen Tackett devoted her life to ministry — not as a title or a role, but as a genuine calling she lived every single day. Married to her husband Arnold in 1970, the two became a ministry partnership that would leave a lasting mark on countless marriages, families, and lives across Southern California and beyond.

Together, Gwen and Arnold led NAME — the National Association of Marriage Enhancement — with a shared passion for seeing marriages saved, strengthened, and restored. For Gwen, this was never simply an organization. It was a mission. She understood, from the inside out, what it means for two people to commit their lives to one another before God, and she gave herself wholeheartedly to helping other couples do the same.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

A Servant Across Many Ministries

Pastor Gwen’s servant heart extended well beyond NAME. For many years, she and Arnold ministered out of Phoenix First Assembly in Phoenix, Arizona, where their passion for marriage, counseling, and the local church was deeply rooted and grew into the ministry legacy they carried forward together.

That foundation led them to serve as Second Half Ministries Directors for the SoCal Network, bringing encouragement and renewed purpose to those navigating the second season of life. And most recently, she served alongside Arnold as Counseling and Marriage Ministry Pastors at Victorville First Assembly of God, where she was a trusted voice, a compassionate counselor, and a steady presence in the lives of so many.

Gwen lived a life marked by faithfulness, love, and an unwavering commitment to both her Savior and the people He placed in her path. She was a woman of deep conviction and even deeper grace — the kind of person who made you feel seen, valued, and pointed toward God all at once.

She Will Be Deeply Missed

To the NAME family, Pastor Gwen was more than a leader. She was a shepherd, a mentor, and a friend. Her dedication to marriages, to counseling, and to the local church leaves a legacy that will continue to bear fruit for generations to come. Arnold continues to lead NAME forward, and we carry with us everything Gwen poured into this ministry and into each of us.

We ask that you keep Arnold, their family, and all who loved her in your prayers during this season of grief and celebration of a life beautifully lived.

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” — Matthew 25:23

Memorial Service

Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 10:00 AM

Victorville First Assembly of God

15260 Nisqualli Rd., Victorville, CA 92395

(760) 243-4343

All are welcome to attend and celebrate the life of Pastor Gwen Tackett.

For questions regarding the memorial service, please contact Victorville First Assembly of God directly at (760) 243-4343 or visit vvfirst.org.