Mary Wiltcher Obituary
In Loving Memory
October 30, 1933 – February 15, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Lou Wiltcher on February 15, 2025, at the age of 91. Mary Lou was a beloved spouse, parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, friend, and community member whose presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Life Well Lived
Mary Lou Wiltcher was born on October 30, 1933, in Porum, OK, to Mack and Mary Hinds, the second oldest of 8 children. The Hinds family moved to Boone, Arkansas in 1939, then to Springdale, Arkansas in 1944. Growing up in a loving household, Mary Lou displayed a passion for learning and creativity from an early age. She graduated from Springdale High School as Salutatorian where she excelled academically and socially, making lifelong friends and earning accolades for her achievements.
Career and Accomplishments
After graduating high school, Mary Lou and 3 of her friends moved to Wichita, Kansas and took jobs as switchboard operators. Eventually Mary Lou returned to Springdale where she took a job at the University of Arkansas and soon met her future husband, Bobby Lagone Wiltcher, who was attending the university on a football scholarship.
Family and Personal Life
Mary Lou and Bobby were married on June 2, 1957, in Lowell, Oklahoma, and moved to Opa- Locka, Florida soon thereafter. In 1965, Mary Lou and Bobby moved to Crescent City, Florida, with their 3 young children, Terri Anne, Robert Wayne and Jeffrey Lee. As a parent, Mary Lou was nurturing, supportive, and always present, instilling values of compassion, integrity, and perseverance in her children. The love and pride Mary Lou had for her family were evident to all who knew her. The Wiltchers were members of First Baptist Church of Crescent City and Mary Lou's husband, Bobby, served on Crescent City's City Council as both commissioner and mayor. Together Mary Lou and Bobby owned and operated L&W Wood Products, Crescent City's largest employer.
Mary Lou was also a cherished grandparent to 6 grandchildren: Elizabeth Leanne, Robert Jeffrey, Crystal Anne, Robert Wayne, Matthew Cole and Alexandria Nicole, and great-grandmother to 6: Alessa Brielle, Jillian Rose, Rosalie Abigail, Annabelle Grace, Alexandria Elizabeth, and Dathan Cole. She treasured the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories through shared adventures, stories, and laughter. Mary Lou's legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through her descendants.
In addition to Mary Lou's grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she is survived by her 3 children; brother, David Lloyd; and sisters, Lena Mae, Golda Rebecca, and Linda Gayle.
Remembering Mary Lou Wiltcher
Mary Lou will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, unwavering spirit, and commitment to our Father God. Mary Lou's ability to brighten a room with her smile and her knack for making everyone feel valued and loved were truly special. Mary Lou's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
A celebration of Mary Lou's life will be held on February 23, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Crescent City. Friends and family are invited to gather at 1 p.m. and share memories, honoring the remarkable life Mary Lou led. The service will begin at 2 p.m. followed by internment at Eden memorial Cemetery.
Rest in peace, Mary Lou Wiltcher. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts forever.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Crescent City.
Published by Palatka Daily News on Feb. 18, 2025.