After a lengthy illness, at 12:20 a.m., Jan. 31, in her home with her husband at her side, Mary passed peacefully from this world into the arms of Jesus. She was 76 years old.

Born in Tulsa, Okla., on May 3, 1940, to Charles and Mary Howe, Mary moved to Vallejo, Calif., at age 11. She was the oldest of 11 children.

With her husband and three children, she moved to Oak Harbor in 1972 and lived in the same house for the past 39 years. Mary spent many years as an antique and collectable dealer, partner in the Shady Lady Antique Mall and known by her peers as the “Garage Sale Goddess.”

She was active in the Oak Harbor Life Church from 1978 until 2014 when her illness prevented her from doing so.

Mary was a ray of light to everyone she came in contact with; even while extremely ill she had a positive attitude and great sense of humor. Her nurses and caregivers often said they felt better when leaving than they did on arrival.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, three adult children, 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her birth parents, stepfather and three of her brothers.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at 2 p.m. Feb 18 at Life Church in Oak Harbor. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Orphan’s Promise in Mary’s name. Contact care of Christian Broadcasting Network, 1-800-759-0700 and please specify to “Orphan’s Promise.”

Arrangements entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home, Oak Harbor.

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