Gianella Edelen

Gianella Edelen, 53, of the Snowball, passed away on May 5, 2025. Born on May 20, 1971, in Richmond, Indiana, she was the daughter of Gregory and Silvia (Rial) Armstrong. Gianella's passion for education led her to a fulfilling career as a high school Spanish teacher, where she inspired countless students at various schools throughout Arkansas, including those in Marshall, Flippin, Little Rock, and Springdale. Her dedication to her students and her love for teaching were evident in all that she did. On August 7, 1999, she married John Edelen, in Snowball, Arkansas. Gianella was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mountain View, Arkansas.

A gifted musician, Gianella shared her musical talents through piano, guitar, and various other instruments. She enjoyed singing, dancing, traveling, and gardening, which brought her great joy and allowed her to connect with the beauty of the world around her.

Gianella is survived by her husband, John Edelen, and two sons, Mason Millsap of Kailua, HI, and Gustav Millsap of Fayetteville, NC. She is also survived by her mother, Silvia Armstrong of Oswego, NY; her brother, Edward (Amy) Armstrong of Cabot, AR; and her sisters, Erica (Michael) Holman of Oswego, NY, and Maralie (Eli Milholland) Armstrong-Rial of Brooklyn, NY. She was preceded in death by her father, Gregory Armstrong.

A Graveside Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Whisenant Cemetery in Snowball, Arkansas. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Friends and family are invited to visit the online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com to share memories and condolences.

Gianella's spirit and zest for life will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.