Mary Gifford

Mary Elizabeth (Dunlap) Gifford, the daughter of Orville Ray and Elsie Ruth (Scott) Dunlap was born April 5, 1922 and departed this life November 10, 2015 at the age of 93. She grew up on the family farm with her three siblings, Edward, Eugene, and Georgia. Mary was a student at Green City High School and graduated in 1940. She was united in marriage to Darrell Alden Gifford on September 7, 1940. Alden and Mary spent the first years of marriage in Rockford, IL and then Kansas City, MO where Alden was employed with Bendix Corporation. Mary was a devoted homemaker and to their union was born 3 children, Stanley Darrell, Stephen Philip, and Randall Scott. In 1961, the family moved back to the Green City area where they engaged in farming. Mary expressed her love of antiques in remodeling a Victorian home they purchased from the Esper Dixon family where they lived until 1996. She was a gracious hostess and demonstrated her love of family and friends, especially during holiday gatherings that are special memories to the family. Mary was a Head Start teacher during the 1980s and 1990s and had a positive impact on many families' lives during that time. She also volunteered with area care services during her later years. Mary was preceded in death by her sister, parents, brothers, and husband. She leaves behind her family, Stan and wife Paulette of Kirksville, MO, Steve of Camdenton, MO, Scott and wife Doris of Conifer, CO, grandson Jeremiah, and 3 great grandchildren, Broderick, Kylee, and Sheldon. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Green City. Mary's love and devotion to her family will be greatly missed. Family rites are being held at the Ruschmeier Funeral Home in Green City, MO. Graveside service for the public will be conducted 1:30 pm Sunday, November 15th at the Mount Olivet Cemetery, Green City.