Mary Alice Armstrong Showalter, 96, passed away in the early hours of Monday, May 21, 2018, at Rolling Meadows Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaFontaine, where she had resided for three months. She previously lived in Marion for more than 75 years.
Mary was born on November 13, 1921, in rural Howard County, Indiana, not far from Kokomo. She was the third of seven children of Emmer and Carrie Armstrong, and she graduated from New London High School in 1940. She met her future husband, Eugene Showalter, in Upland; they were married for 40 years. She was a wife, mother, and homemaker for decades, and she worked for eight years at World Gospel Mission in Marion, before retiring in 1983.
Retirement agreed with her; she lived independently and drove herself on errands into her mid-90s. She took great pride in her home, which was perpetually spotless, and loved continually tinkering with its decor. She also enjoyed music, reading, and television. Mary delighted most of all in her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Among family, she will always be remembered for her chocolate fudge, stovetop-cranked popcorn, and Celeste salad.
Throughout her long life, she was a devoted Christian and church member, and she worshiped for many years at South Marion Friends Meeting, Lakeview Wesleyan Church, and College Wesleyan Church.
Mary was a beloved friend, mother, grandmother, and more to many, all of whom will miss her deeply. Surviving family include her three children and their spouses: Jerry and Judy Showalter of Marion, David and GeGe Showalter of Phoenix, Arizona, and Patricia (Showalter) and Dan Fetsco of Rochester, Michigan. She will be remembered lovingly as well by her six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
In death, she joins her husband, Gene, as well as all six of her siblings: Nita Mullen, Earl Armstrong, Josephine Gaylor, Robert Armstrong, Russell Armstrong, and Betty Lee.
A service celebrating Mary’s life will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29, 2018, at College Wesleyan Church in Marion, with Rev. Dave Freelan officiating. All friends are welcome.
Donations may be made in her memory to World Gospel Mission, P.O. Box 948, Marion, IN 46952-0948.
Arrangements are entrusted to Integrity Funeral Care, 2901 S. Washington St., Marion, IN.
Online condolences may be made at www.ifccares.com.