Mary Lynn Emery

Born on September 6, 1943, in Greencastle (from Bainbridge), Indiana, Mary Lynn was the eldest of six children and a long-awaited miracle baby. From the start, she carried herself with quiet strength, resilience, and a nurturing heart.

She attended Purdue University before graduating from Indiana State University. Over her life, she served as an interior designer, spent 18 years helping families as a social worker, and later became a certified cheese master—approaching each chapter with creativity and dedication.

But the roles that held the greatest meaning for her were mom, grandma, and—and especially—“B‑G” (Best Grandma), a loving nickname bestowed by her great-grandchildren.

Mary Lynn was the devoted mother of Chad Helmerick (born October 27, 1969). She poured herself into the lives of her grandchildren—Hanna Schluchter (Kennedy Schluchter) and Logan Helmerick—offering wisdom, guidance, laughter, and unwavering support. Even into her 80s, she was actively involved with her great-grandchildren, Mason and Savanna Schluchter, attending school events, celebrating milestones, and delighting in every moment with them. To them, she was more than a great-grandmother—she was B‑G: their anchor, their cheerleader, their forever friend.

Widowed by her first husband, Jim Helmerick, she later found joy again with Richard Emery, whom she married on May 26, 2001. She also lovingly embraced her stepfamily: Duane Emery (Mary Lynn’s stepson) and his wife Stephanie, along with their children Zoe and Ethan Emery; and Beth Campbell, who is married to Maury Campbell. Together, Beth and Maury raised their children Maureen Campbell and Curtis Campbell, whom Mary Lynn welcomed with open arms.

Mary Lynn was a devoted daughter and sister. She is survived by her siblings Emily (Rick) Swords, Linda Hanks, John Hanks, and Jimmy Hanks—and preceded in death by her youngest sister, Rebecca Hanks.

A lifelong nurturer, Mary Lynn fostered children, cared deeply for animals—especially her beloved French bulldogs—and filled her home with lush plants and warmth. She never missed her weekly breakfast gatherings with her high school best friends—a tradition that endured across decades. Her deep roots in Bainbridge and Indianapolis made her a beloved presence to all who knew her.

Mary Lynn’s legacy is found in the people she loved and raised—with patience, compassion, humor, and steadfast devotion. She will be remembered for making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

She was our miracle from the beginning- and she’ll remain our B-G, always

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mary Lynn’s memory to a qualifying foster care organization in Indianapolis, helping continue her lifelong commitment to caring for children in need.

Donate in Mary Lynn’s Name:

Firefly Children & Family Alliance (formerly Children’s Bureau)

Indianapolis-based organization providing foster care services and support across Indiana. They are approved for Indiana’s Foster Care Donation Tax Credit—and donations up to $10,000 may qualify for a 50% state tax credit.

🔗 Donate Online: Visit Firefly Children & Family Alliance’s donation page (https://www.fireflyin.org/sup…) They’ll provide tax credit documentation and instructions shortly after donation.