Mary (Hickey) Barnhart, age 100, of Meta, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, at Maries Manor in Vienna.  She was born in her family home on October 14, 1924, daughter of the late William Carney and Stella Rene (Smith) Hickey.  On September 8, 1942, in Dixon, Mary was united in marriage to Lewis Earl Barnhart, who preceded her in death on May 20, 2019.

Mary lived a long and fulfilling life, reaching the remarkable milestone of 100 years, and still sharp as a tack.  She lived through the Great Depression, 16 presidents, 10 wars and conflicts, seen the automobile evolve and interstate highways built, witnessed the development of countless technological creations, and watched the first man travel to the moon.

After graduating from Vienna High School, Mary was united in marriage to Lewis Barnhart.  To this union four children were born.  In addition to helping Lewis on their family farm, Mary taught school in Hay Holler near her home and later worked at LB Manufacturing in Meta, St. Elizabeth, and Iberia; and ended her career as a cook for Vienna school.

Mary enjoyed traveling with her husband, Lewis.  She was a devoted member of Ricker Memorial Church of the Nazarene in Van Cleve, where she served as Sunday school teacher for many years. Mary was a woman of unwavering faith and love for God, her family, and her church.   Her life was a testament of love, enriched by the family she cherished and the moments they shared together.

She is survived by four children, Earlyn (Barnhart) Hoppas of Vienna, Shelby Barnhart and wife Cheryl of Meta, Billy Barnhart and wife Marlene of Meta, and Phyllis (Barnhart) Shanks and husband Darrell of Vienna; grandchildren, Rex Earl Barnhart, Robin Lynn Ternet, Stacy Rene Fuller, Curtis Aaron Barnhart, Heather Lee Harvey, Michelle Lee Coots, Darren Wayne Shanks, Lorrie Jane Bright, and Shannon Lee Barnhart; 15 great-grandchildren with one on the way; numerous great-great-grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.

In addition to her parents, William Carney and Stella Hickey, and husband, Louie Barnhart, she was preceded in death by her brother, James Ralph Hickey, who passed away in Battle of Normandy, and sister, Margie Mae Hale.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., with services immediately following at 11 a.m., on Saturday, April 19, at Ricker Memorial Church of the Nazarene in Van Cleve with Bro. Bob Hamm officiating.  Interment will be held in Pendleton Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Ricker Memorial Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Meta.