Mary "Vi" Vanest

Mary Viola Vanest (nee Darst), aged 94, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 8, 1932, in Cheshire, Ohio, she lived a long, meaningful life rooted in her Christian faith and steadfast strength.

Viola or “Vi” as she was called by those who knew her well, was famous for her “Mona Lisa Smile,” her quick wit, and her unwavering devotion to her husband and family. She built a blessed life defined by family and faith. She married her husband of nearly 75 years, Clark W. Vanest, on January 12, 1952, in Gallipolis, Ohio, and together they shared seven decades of partnership, devotion, adventure and fun. She would be the first to tell you, though, it wasn’t all puppy dogs and rainbows, but she’d also be the first to tell you that the good times far outweighed the bad. She treasured the countless travel adventures she shared with her husband. One of her favorite destinations was Waterford, Ireland. After all, she was a lifetime member of the Waterford (Crystal) Collector Society. When she wasn’t collecting crystal or traveling, she was an avid reader and equally enjoyed staying home with a good book. She had impeccable taste in homes and attire, alike. She also was a long-time member of Hilliard Church of Christ.

She is survived by her husband Clark Vanest; her three children Roger (Becky) Vanest of Blairsville, Ga., Teresa (Tim) Peters of Powell, Mary Lou Brink (Doug Molloy) of Cleveland; four grandchildren, Christy, Lauren, Bryan and Kevin; 5 great-grandchildren, Lilith, Caleb, Julia, Dean and Nora; her older sister Virginia McDavid of Ypsilanti, Mich.; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Mary Etta Darst and Virgil Darst; and brothers Melvin Darst and George Lemley.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Road, with Danny Vanscoy officiating, where visitation will take place from 9:30 AM until time of service. Burial will follow at Glen Rest Memorial Estate Cemetery, 8029 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a donation to OhioHealth Kobacker House online through the OhioHealth Foundation or by calling (614) 544-4483. Viola leaves behind a legacy of resilience and quiet grace. Her physical presence will be deeply missed, but we know she is finally with her Heavenly Father. Her influences and memories will be felt and carried on by generations to come.