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Mary McCormick Obituary
79, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 16, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mary was born April 3, 1935 in Aurora, IN to Nathan and Izora Elizabeth Chatham. After graduating from Indiana State University in 1957 as a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority, she married and raised four daughters, who were the loves of her life. Her love of art was realized when she became an art teacher in 1970, from which she retired after 26 years, the last 14 at South Decatur High School. With much love and compassion, she touched the lives of and inspired hundreds of students during her career. She was often remembered fondly for her beautiful smile, infectious laugh and big sense of humor. Whether it was the paint color in her home or the clothing in her wardrobe, her passion for bright colors was ever present. Later in life after retiring in Columbus, IN, she was an avid painter, and enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family, and sitting for her grand-dogs and cats. Mary cherished her membership in the Columbus First Church of the Nazarene as well as the Decatur County Teachers Association, the Indiana Retired Teachers Association and the National Education Association. Never meeting a stranger, she made friends everywhere she went. Mary loved all animals and was a frequent visitor to the Elephant Barn at the Indianapolis Zoo.
Mary is survived by four daughters, Cheryl (John) Belles, Jane McCormick, Laurie (James) Pfaffenberger, Mary Beth (Richard) Oakes; two grandchildren, Amanda (Chuck) Owen, Bradley Belles; one great-granddaughter, Cameron Elizabeth Owen - who was named after her Great Nanna, and numerous cousins and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her grandson, Nathan Neal Pfaffenberger.
In celebration of her life, a memorial service will be held on April 4, 2015 in Indianapolis. This event will coincide with Mary's 80th birthday weekend.
Online condolences and tributes can be made at http://www.leppertmortuary.com
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the Indianapolis Zoo and its care for African Elephants at: Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222 or contact [email protected] or 317-630-2049. Memorial gifts can also be made to St. Vincent Hospice online at www.give.stvincent.org. Arrangements have been entrusted to Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary McCormick
4 Entries
Joanne Pacheco
March 4, 2015
Mary was truly an exceptional person. My life is richer for having known her. I will sorely miss her infectious smile.
Lindsay Cool
February 21, 2015
Mary touched so many lives. I am blessed to have called her a friend. Your mother was a wonderful lady. She always had a smile and a kind word. Her laugh was infectious! She loved you girls with all her dear heart and soul! Praying for you all!
Lindsay Cool
February 21, 2015
Mary touched so many lives. I am blessed to have called her a friend. Your mother was a wonderful lady. She always had a smile and a kind word. Her laugh was infectious! She loved you girls with all her dear heart and soul! Praying for you all!
Phil Barrow
February 21, 2015
Your Mother was a wonderful lady. What a pleasure to sit near her at church. She was always upbeat and an inspiration to all of us. She came many mornings when it was a struggle for her. You have a great heritage.
She will be missed!
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