COLUMBUS
Mary L. Stearns, 92, of Columbus passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family. Mary was born May 19, 1929 in Seymour a daughter of the late Ralph and Grace (Nealis) Lawdermilt. Mary and Jack grew up in North Vernon and raised their four children there as well. They then relocated to Arizona in 1973 for 29 years and returned to the Columbus area in 2002. Mary was an avid reader, especially on topics of politics, history, and sports. She became the family “go to” for trivia on these and other topics. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking and traveling. Surviving are sons, Michael (Susan) Stearns of League City, TX; and James Stearns of Houston, TX; daughters, Janet (Mike) Roane; and Marsha Gottwalles, both of Columbus; grandchildren, Andrew Stearns; Brad (Bonny) Roane; Erick (Carole) Roane; Julie Stattenfield; and Lindsey Hooker; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack W. Stearns; and a brother, Ray Lawdermilt. Visitation is 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM Thursday, December 23, 2021 at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home 3855 25th Street Columbus with a Memorial Service at 11:30 AM. Burial will be in Vernon Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana.
