Born August 20, 1938 in Augusta County, she was a daughter of the late Guy Oliver and Florence (Shepherd) Hoy. On June 21, 1957 she married Sulivan Ted Bower. The two share 68 years of loving marriage.
Mary's greatest joy in life was raising and caring for her children. She was a devoted mother and cherished the opportunity to stay home with them as they grew. Mary was also a faithful and active member of Waynesboro Free Methodist Church, where she found great happiness and fulfillment. Throughout the years, she served her church by teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School.
Mary had a generous and giving spirit, always willing to help her family, friends, and church in any way she could. In her later years, she enjoyed crocheting, spending time on her back porch, watching birds, singing, and cooking. Above all, she treasured the time spent with those she loved.
Mary will be remembered for her unwavering love and devotion as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her kindness, faith, and selfless heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings, G.O., Glenn, Irene, and Betty.
Survivors include her husband, Ted Bower; children, Tim Bower and wife, Debbie, David “Bo” Bower and wife, Arlean, Jeff Bower and wife, Michelle, and Tracie Cutchin; grandchildren, Joseph (Gail) Bower, Aimee (Doug) Stockenstroom, Crystal (Josh) Jarrels, Michael (Hannah) Bower, Jason (Alex) Bower, Oliva Bower, and Kristin Cutchin; great-grandchildren, Ryan, Jaydn, Malachy, Norah, Chandler, Riley, Eleanor, Liam, Abagail, John, and Cole; great-great-grandson, Grayon; sister, Valerie Tilley; and several nieces and nephews.
Following cremation, a celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Waynesboro Free Methodist Church with Pastor Scott Broad and her grandson, Michael Bower officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Waynesboro Free Methodist Church, Building Fund, 600 Hopeman Parkway, Waynesboro, VA 22980.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes of Waynesboro.
Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com
