Gretchen Wolf Maher, 84 of Hinesville, died unexpectedly Friday, January 15, 2021 at Liberty Regional Medical Center after a brief illness.

Gretchen was the widow of James Cornelius Maher, who died in 2003. She is survived by three daughters, Kathy Maher of Hinesville; Kelly Maher Bilodeau of Hingham, MA and Kerry Maher Hnath of Hull, MA; her brother Bruce Wolf of Spokane, WA and grandchildren Jessica, Ellie, Sarah, Caroline, Will and James and great grandchildren who simply adored her.

She was born in Lansford, North Dakota and moved to Phoenix, Arizona at age 13. She attended Arizona State University and San Jose State receiving her degree in education. She had a long career as an elementary school teacher which she loved; her students loved her as well. She retired in 1998 from Diamond Elementary, Fort Stewart, GA.

To know Gretchen was to know a person who exuded kindness and caring. Ever considerate, she was always quick to offer her help or a word of support to anyone in need. Gretchen was blessed with many friends near and far whose friendship she cherished. She was a devoted bridge player, often playing several times weekly, and a dedicated member of the Morning Glory Garden Club. She often said she loved the friends with whom she played bridge more than the game itself. Gretchen also was an active member of St. Philip's Episcopal Church.

Above all, however, Gretchen loved her family. For her, there was nothing better than spending time with her daughters and their families, playing card games, reminiscing on the back porch and just being together. She was selfless in her devotion to family, putting them above all else. Her warmth, kindness and continuous support of friends and family serve as her lasting legacy.

Due to the Covid pandemic, a Celebration of Gretchen's life will be held at a later date.