Mary Ann Love

Born on October 17, 1930, in Black Oak, Arkansas, Mary was the daughter of Maudie and Wiley Warren. She grew up surrounded by the love of her family, including her three sisters—Earlene Buckingham, Ruth Peterson, and Cordia Quinn—and her brother, James (JB) Warren.

Mary attended Merced High School and was an Usherette for Merced Theater. She was courted by a young man who fell in love with her, and on December 21, 1947, Mary wed the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Love. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family and deep devotion to one another. They raised three beautiful daughters, Sharon, Kathy, and Becky. Their marriage was a true partnership—one marked by love, adventure, and enduring commitment. Mary was a dedicated homemaker, an exceptional housewife, and the heart of her home. In addition to supporting Jerry, she played a vital role in running his turkey farming business, managing much of the day-to-day operations behind the scenes. Her strength and hard work were the backbone of their livelihood.

Mary’s life was entirely devoted to her husband and family. She was always by Jerry’s side on countless adventures—from camping trips to RV travels and hunting excursions in Wyoming—and her greatest joy came from being with her loved ones.

Mary is survived by her daughters Sharon Love, Thermopolis, WY, Kathy Shirah, Merced, CA and Becky (Dan) Herring, Thermopolis, WY. And her loving sister-in-law, Nancy Tapley of Carmichael, CA.

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jen (Joe) Luis, Thermopolis, WY. Chris Jones, Thermopolis, WY. Matt (Shelly) Jones, Ten Sleep, WY.

Emily (Jerry) Palmer, Merced, CA. Liz (Pat) Dayton, Hickman, CA. Gina (Joe) Rose, Atwater, CA. Anna (Marc) Freeman, Atwater, Ca. Joe (Heather) Herring, Thermopolis, Wy. Justin (Michelle) Herring, Thermopolis, Wy.

Her legacy continues through her 14 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and one more on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, her loving husband Jerry Love in 2015, her brother-in-law Larry Tapley in 2021 and her son-in-law George Shirah in 2022.

Mary’s family was the joy of her life. Her face would light up at the sight or sound of her grandchildren. Her warmth, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to those she loved will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Her life was a beautiful testament to LOVE, just like her name—qualities that will live on in everyone who knew her.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B Street Merced, CA 95341.