Mary Alice Stanley

Mary Alice Stanley entered into eternal rest on February 14th, 2026, the day of her wedding anniversary and one day before her 94th birthday. She was born the only daughter and youngest child to William “Bill” and Sylvia (Cox) Kearby on February 15th, 1932.

While at work, Mary met Bobby Lewis Stanley and the two were united in marriage on February 14th, 1954. He preceded her in death on October 21st, 2021.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and four brothers and their wives – Richard (Helen) Kearby, Theodore (Mary Opal) Kearby, John (Bessie) Kearby and Charles Kearby.

Mary spent almost her entire life in French Lick. She graduated from French Lick High School in 1950 where she participated in the marching band. The only time she lived away was immediately following graduation when she and several other young ladies rented an apartment in Tell City while they were employed at General Electric.

Through the years, she also worked at various other places including Springs Valley Bank, Wood Design, and Kimball. In 1986 she decided to quit working to stay home to take care of her only grandson – Ryan. This was her favorite job, and one where many special memories were made between the two. At a young age, he could be found standing on a kitchen chair while she instructed him on how to run through persimmon pulp. She also taught him how to ride a bike, and they would go mushroom hunting in the spring, Once he started school, Mary worked for a short time at the West Baden Post Office.

Mary led a simple life, never wanting for or expecting much. She was content with what she had. Being surrounded by her family was all she really wanted. Mary was the epitome of a kind and humble servant. She always put everyone else first and wanted to make sure they were taken care of before thinking about herself.

Her favorite place to be was at home. She loved sitting on her front porch watching people drive by, talking with neighbors, or simply enjoying a beautiful day. She also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, reading, and watching game shows.

Mary’s faith was a central part of her life. She most recently attended Little Mission Church in Hardinsburg, Indiana. Once she was no longer physically able to attend, she enjoyed watching Dr. David Jeremiah on TV while still at home and then participating in the church services during her time at Springs Valley Meadows.

Her family will remember Mary for her unconditional love and giving spirit. She was always the first one there when any of them needed anything. Mary was an excellent cook and baker, as evidenced by the number of pies she made each year for each family member’s birthday.

She is survived by:

Son – David Stanley of French Lick

Daughters – Karen Haworth (Garry) of French Lick

Susan Barwe (John) of Jasper

Grandson – Ryan Barwe of Jasper

Multiple Nieces and Nephews

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Springs Valley Meadows and Heart to Heart Hospice for the outstanding and compassionate care they provided to Mary, as well as the support provided to the family, particularly as the end of her life drew near. They would also like to offer their heartfelt thanks to family friends Anna Dedrick and Annamae Holiday for the numerous cards and phone calls, especially during her final years.

PRIVATE GRAVESIDE CEREMONY

A Private Graveside Ceremony will be held with burial at Ames Chapel Cemetery.