Mary Jane Church was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend. Mary passed away on March 26, 2025, at age 89.
Mary was born on October 16, 1935, in Eugene, Oregon, to her parents Chester and Ruby Philips. Mary had a wonderful childhood in Spokane Washington growing up with her sister, Sue.
During her junior year of college at the University of Idaho where Mary earned her BS in Home Economics Education, she met her soulmate, Larry. After marrying a year later, Larry joined the Air Force and they began their long and exciting life together.
For the next 30 years they lived all over the world, and their travels were just as extensive. They raised a family and were true companions in their journey through life.
Mary looked back at these years with great joy and gratitude, remembering their wonderful friends and great times. Mary and Larry gave their three kids a lifetime of unforgettable memories.
Larry retired from the military in 1987 and they moved to Woodland, California to be close to Mary’s mom and stepdad, Chester Roth. They built a wonderful life and circle of close friends in Woodland, hosting many football parties, while also continuing to explore the world.
Mary stayed busy after Larry passed in 2009, continuing her travels, visiting family, and being actively involved in local groups like the PEO. She loved visiting their favorite places like Hawaii, Palm Desert and Europe. Mary was not one to sit idle. She stayed active, always on the move.
Mary also enjoyed quilting, sewing, cross stitching, playing on the computer, and shopping. She also enjoyed her wine, and was the first to offer guests a glass, along with her favorite hors d’oeuvres.
Mary was a kind, caring, and compassionate person who loved to laugh. She will be dearly missed and loved by many.
Mary requested in lieu of a memorial service, that she will always be remembered for the love and care she had for her family, and the many friendships she cultivated throughout the years.
Mary Church is survived by her three children and their spouses, Deanne Wegmann (Steve), Dean Church (Lisa) and Mary Kay Haveman (Mark); seven grandchildren and their spouses, Nick, Kyle (Xiaoyan), Stephanie (Fred), Kelley (Juilo), Henry (Tatum), Bobby and Miranda (Luke), and five great-grandchildren (Zoe, Alicia, Mary Jane, Francis, and Quinn).
Funeral services are being arranged so Mary can join Larry at Arlington National Cemetery.