Mary E. Ackerson

1932-2025

SALEM — Mary E. Ackerson passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the age of 92 in Salem, Ohio. Born on Oct. 11, 1932, in Gary, Indiana, Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Walter and Gladys (Harmon) Cook.

A loving housewife and active member at her church, Mary’s presence was a source of joy to all who knew her. Her passion for music was evident in the beautiful Christian hymns she both played on the piano and composed. Her love for the holidays was infectious.

She enjoyed traveling and visiting her family across the country with trips to Florida, Texas and Idaho. Her family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. A devoted member of Greenford Christian Church, Mary’s faith was unwavering, and her collection of distinctive hats became a beloved signature of her unique spirit.

Animals held a special place in Mary’s heart, and she approached all living creatures with the same compassion and kindness she showed to people. She also had a great love of flowers. Her talent for the written word was evident in the beautiful letters and calligraphy she created. Mary’s thoughtful nature shone through in the birthday cards she always sent, each one a work of art that conveyed her love and best wishes. She collected bells and had a great fondness for jewelry. She had many cameras, which led to her taking thousands of pictures of everyone and everything she found beauty in.

Mary was a devoted mother to her children, Alan (Paula) Ackerson, of Girard, Ohio, Cathy (Jim) Jeffries of Boise, Idaho, Daniel (Vonda) Ackerson of Jacksonville, Florida, and Amy Cassie Ackerson of Columbus, Ohio. Her love and lessons live on through her cherished grandchildren, Emily, Victor, Jason, Michelle, Jamie, Taylor, and Danielle, as well as her three great-grandchildren, Dani, Rylee, and Haven. She is also survived by her siblings, Dick (Helen) Cook, Bob (Sue) Cook, and Maxine Kremm.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Edward L. Ackerson; her sister, Marjorie (Ray) Mickle; brother-in-law, Virgil Kremm; and an infant brother.

Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Mary’s life from 10 a.m. until noon, Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home. Reverend John Bush of Greenford Christian Church will officiate the service that will immediately follow at noon. Mary will be laid to rest next to her husband at Greenford Christian Church Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://act.alz.org/

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Mary’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

3/11/25