COLUMBUS
Our dear mother, Mary G. Gearhart, went to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 98 on Thursday, February 16, 2023 in Columbus, Indiana. Born March 20, 1924 in Parker County Texas, Mary was the daughter of Robert E. and Mollie Blocker. She married Merril H. Gearhart on September 11, 1947 in San Diego, California. They started their life together in Columbus, Indiana.
She was a wonderful Christian mother and because of her faith, her children grew up in the church to become followers of Jesus at a young age. Mom started taking us to Memorial Baptist Church in 1952, and she was their last living charter member.
Mom was known as a great storyteller and she loved to “talk”. If she could make you laugh, then her story was a success. Mom had a love for life, a love for people and was always a kid at heart. Her mother even said, “Mary, you always want to have a good time wherever you go”!
Even though her family was poor and worked hard for a living, Mom was always surrounded with love and had wonderful childhood memories.
Mom enjoyed traveling, had a passion for shopping and was known for her great banana pudding.
Mom is survived by her daughters, Shirley Tingley of Columbus and Susie (Curt) Wilkins of South Carolina. Sister, Joyce Gorbett of Columbus, six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Robert M. Gearhart, an unborn child, son-in-law Ken Tingley, three brothers and three sisters.
Special thanks to Hickory Creek at Columbus for the loving care and sweet attention to our Mother. Thank you, Nurse Alecia, for sharing your beautiful dog Buttons with our mom.
The family is having a private graveside gathering.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to: Memorial Baptist Church, 2320 7th St. Columbus, IN 47201.
Arrangements were entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home.
