Mary Edith (Whitelock) Barber

Mary Edith was born in Houston, Texas on June 25, 1945 to Gordon and Alice Whitelock. She departed this world on May 12, 2026. She leaves behind her beloved husband Don of 57 years, daughter Kelly Harris (Steve), sons Josh Barber (Dana) and Jess Barber, 7 grand and great grandchildren: Siara, Savannah, Sadie, Hazel, Graham, Mason and Everlee.

Mary Edith had an adventurous childhood in and around Houston and Marble Falls. She played basketball, volleyball and sang in the choir. She often reminisced about following her big brothers (whom she adored!) David and Paul around, discovering all of the nooks and crannies the land had to offer. After graduating from Houston Baptist College, she spent a semester at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. Mary Edith then headed back to Texas to begin a life with Don. They were married in 1969 and settled in Marble Falls where they raised their kids and lived a wonderful life.

Mary Edith will be remembered for so much. She taught junior high and middle school students in the Marble Falls School District for nearly 30 years, all while diligently supporting her 3 kids through sports and academics, as well as her coach/principal husband. Of deep importance to her, was the establishment of and life her family made at Camp Peniel. She often shared fond memories of finding the camp property with her dad. The wonder, curiosity and excitement she ALWAYS had for nature was palpable and inspiring for many. She led countless bible studies and classes at Camp Peniel, First Baptist Church and Fellowship Baptist Church. After retiring from the school district in 2003, She went on to support Don as the Director of Camp Peniel for several years. She remained an integral part of Camp Peniel and her community as long as she lived. For example, she most recently restored the Pepper cabin and created a nature program about the flora and fauna at Camp Peniel. Although her day job was Teacher, her identity was always Daughter of God, and Follower of Jesus.

Mary Edith was kind, faithful, insightful and dedicated. Her generosity of spirit will live on in the hearts of her children and all who loved her. She selflessly gave her time and resources. She prayed fervently and trusted deeply. She had a special way of making people feel known and welcome. If you knew her… you know she loved chocolate, bluebonnets and wild flowers, Lake City, talking and singing with her family, playing games, and trying not to laugh at Don’s jokes. She was playful and silly, and at the same time able to talk about the most serious matters of the heart. She will be remembered for the fullness of her life and spirit, as well as the delicious “do-dads” she made from pie crust that no one else can seem to replicate.

Mary Edith was simply the very best Wife, Mom, Grandmother, Sister, Daughter, Friend, Teacher, Scientist, Adventurer, and most important to her… Woman of Faith. She will be deeply missed. A memorial service will be held at Camp Peniel on Saturday, May 30 at 11am, we politely ask attendees to bring their own chair for seating. In lieu of flowers/gifts, please consider donating a monetary gift to Camp Peniel in memory of Mary Edith.