Mary Ellen Schnelle

Mary Ellen Lyon Schnelle, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on October 5, 2026, at the age of 99. Known for her snow-white hair, her beautiful smile, and a sense of humor that could lighten any room, Mary lived a long and remarkable life that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Born on November 11, 1926, in Dalhart, Texas, to Anna and Emmett Lyon, Mary showed her spirit early. At just 16, she became the first female Western Union telegram messenger to make her deliveries by bicycle, a fitting start for a woman who never let convention stand in her way. That same determination carried her through a long working life, and she did not retire from AAA Ohio Auto Club until the age of 80.

Mary gave generously to her community. She served as a deacon for her church, ushered at the Ohio Theatre in downtown Columbus, and was a devoted member of the Clintonville Women's Club for thirty years. In her quieter hours, she loved working the Columbus Dispatch crosswords and word search puzzles, taking nature walks, and playing tennis. A loyal fan, she cheered for The Ohio State University football team through every season. Each Christmas, her family looked forward to her famous chocolate turtles, a sweet tradition that will be dearly missed.

Above all, Mary loved her family. She is survived by her four children, Donna M. Blair, Linda K Wintrow, Terence A. Lyon, and Karen D. DeMers; 13 grandchildren: 37 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren, along with her nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert O. Schnelle, and her parents, Anna and Emmett Lyon, brothers Wayne Lyon, Dewey Lyon, Jerry Lyon and Mack Lyon, sisters Nita Kasper and Phyllis Stott.

Through every joy and every trial, Mary held fast to her favorite saying, "This Too Shall Pass," a reflection of the faith and quiet grace that guided her days.

A Funeral Service will be held at Schoedinger Worthington, 6699 N High Street, Worthington, OH 43085 on October 19, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The service will also be available by live stream. Visitation will be held at the same location on October 19, 2026, to follow the service until 7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to My Mom's Mind at https://mymomsmind.org/giving-page-1-1,

"The Dash" by Linda Ellis

I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning to the end

He noted that first came the date of birth and spoke the following date with tears. but he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.