Mary Lou Rizner

Mary Lou Rizner, age 86, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, passed away on December 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving daughters. Born on July 25, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Mary was the daughter of immigrants – her dad was born in Italy and her mother in Germany which made life interesting for her and her 3 siblings. They were a close-knit family with strong values that shaped her life.

After graduating from business school in Michigan, she married her beloved husband, Bob Rizner. Together, they moved to Atlanta, where they built a life filled with love, partnership, and devotion, sharing 64 wonderful years until Bob’s passing in 2024.

Mary dedicated much of her professional life to Life of Georgia Insurance Company in Atlanta, where she served as an office manager and secretary. Her commitment, attention to detail, and warm personality made her a valued colleague and friend to many.

Family was always at the heart of Mary’s world. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, cherishing every moment spent with her loved ones. Mary found joy in hosting gatherings with family and friends, where her home was filled with laughter, delicious food, and the warmth of togetherness. She was known for her love of baking and her adventurous spirit in the kitchen, always eager to try new recipes and share her creations with family and friends.

Mary had a lively and playful personality that automatically drew people to her…always quick with a joke or entertaining story. Her knack for making people laugh was a true gift and a testament to how she lived her life. She undeniably made a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure to know her.

Mary’s interests extended beyond her home. She was an active member of McKendree United Methodist Church, where she found spiritual fulfillment and a sense of community. Mary was also a long-standing member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships and participated in numerous community service projects.

Mary loved to travel in her younger days. Her and Bob would jet set all around the United States and Europe, exploring new places and enjoying amazing adventures. She was also an avid bowler and a member on a weekly bowling league.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Stacy Bishop (Richard) and Pam Tedder (Michael), her sister JoAnn Langen, and her five cherished grandchildren: Avery, Ally, Kyle, Bradley, and Reese. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob Rizner.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 PM on Sunday, January 18, 2025, at Wages and Sons Funeral Home, 1031 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM, with a reception from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to share condolences and memories online at www.wagesandsons.com.

Mary Lou Rizner will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her humor, her generosity, her faith, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.