Mary Beth Lyvers

Mary Beth Lyvers, a beacon of love and faith, passed away in her home on the morning of Tuesday, January 27th, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on April 19th, 1946, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Herman Karl Jannsen and Mary Melinda Weber, Mary Beth's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and the joy she brought to those around her.

During Mary Beth's early years in South Bend, she loved spending time with her grandfather, William H. Weber. They would visit train yards and go to the farmer's market on Saturdays. She spent hours watching him draw, especially trains, and she assisted with drawing the people on them, which laid the foundation for a life filled with love, dedication, and service. She had two half-brothers, Douglas Allan Jannsen (deceased) and Paul E. Jannsen. Her journey of love began with her first husband, Robert Eugene Walker, with whom she shared five wonderful children: Mike W. Walker of Houston, Texas; Sandra M. Walker of Fort Myers, Florida; Toni L. (Todd) Sandlin of Williston, Florida; Rob A. Walker of South Bend, Indiana; and Jerry T. Walker of Mishawaka, Indiana; 10 grandchildren: Crystal (Mikhail Sirota) Huys, Ella Merrill, Bryce Merrill, Lane Merrill, Alison Walker, Cole Merrill, Ryan Sandlin, Erica Sandlin, Shannon (Freddie) Miller, and Shane (Kaylee) Sandlin; and 1 great-grandchild, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.

After the marriage of twenty-nine years with Robert ended, Mary Beth found love again and married her surviving second husband, Mark Allan Lyvers. Her family grew to include: Gail Lorraine Lyvers-Huffer of Plymouth, Indiana; Gladny Todd (Lara) Lyvers of Cape Coral, Florida; Gary Scott Lyvers of Mishawaka, Indiana; Mark Gregory (Gail) Lyvers of Mishawaka, Indiana; and Glenn Allan (April) Lyvers of Johnstown, Pennsylvania; 11 grandchildren: Patricia Clyde, Sydney Kreitzer, Valerie Lyvers, Dusten Lyvers, Forest Lyvers, Karen Lyvers, Erika Bonilla, Adam Lyvers, Samuel Huffer, Lilly Lyvers, Carolyn Lyvers, and Anthony Lyvers (deceased). Mark stood by her side, sharing in the laughter and love that defined their thirty years together.

Professionally, Mary Beth was a respected payroll accountant, a role that showcased her meticulous nature and her commitment to excellence. Her work was more than a job; it was a reflection of her integrity and her dedication to supporting her family and those she worked with.

Mary Beth's passions extended far beyond her professional life. A devout Catholic, she found solace and strength in her faith. She was an active member of her church community and took great pleasure in assisting the nuns at Ancilla College. She was also a member of the Associate Community of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ. Her faith was her compass, guiding her through life's challenges and celebrations.

An avid Notre Dame football fan, Mary Beth cherished the moments spent ushering at games with her son, Jerry. These experiences were not just about the sport but about the bond they shared and the memories they created together. Her garden was her sanctuary, a place where she nurtured her flowers with the same care and attention she gave to her loved ones. Mary Beth's hands were rarely still, as she was often found knitting, a skill she shared with others through her yarn club, which met often for knitting and movie nights.

Music was another source of joy for Mary Beth, particularly the timeless tunes of Elvis Presley. Her love for the King of Rock 'n' Roll was a melody that played throughout her life, bringing her comfort and happiness. A woman of many interests, she also enjoyed shopping, especially for shoes, indulging in true crime shows, and was known for her close relationship with her mother, a bond that remained strong throughout her life.

Mary Beth's legacy is one of unwavering love and a faith-filled life. She was the heart of her family, a friend to many, and a woman whose presence was a gift to all who knew her. Her passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those she loved.

A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1204 North Armstrong, Kokomo, IN 46901. Friends and family are invited to gather one hour prior to the service to share memories and to support one another during this time of loss. Following Mass, Mary Beth will be laid to rest at Kokomo Memorial Park, where she will be surrounded by the beauty of nature she so adored.

The Palmer Funeral Home – River Park Chapel, located at 2528 Mishawaka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be expressed online at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Beth Lyvers will be remembered as a loving mother, a faithful friend, and a woman whose life was a reflection of the love and grace she believed in so deeply. Her memory will be cherished, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.