Mary Eliza Nevius, age 91, of Springfield, Missouri, went home to be with the Lord on October 14, 2025. Born June 13, 1934, in Crossville, Tennessee, to Lewis O’Dell and Laura Hayley, Mary lived a life marked by deep faith, loving service, and unwavering devotion to others.

In 1955, Mary married the love of her life, Manuel Nevius, after meeting him at Baptist Bible College in Springfield. Together, they faithfully served as missionaries in Argentina for 40 years, from 1968 until 2008, when Manuel became ill. Mary lovingly cared for him until his passing in 2013, demonstrating the same steadfast love that defined her life.

Even after Manuel’s death, Mary remained active in ministry, especially through the Grief Share Ministry at her church, where she provided hope and healing to many walking through loss. She was a trusted mentor to younger missionaries and a compassionate friend to widows, offering wisdom drawn from her own journey.

Mary found joy in simple pleasures, she was a fierce Scrabble opponent and loved tackling word puzzles with the same sharp mind and gentle humor that endeared her to so many.

Mary adored her grandchildren, who were always a delight to her, but her great-grandchildren brought a special kind of joy that lit up her later years. Her family was the treasure of her life, and she cherished every moment with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband Manuel; her children Tim and Becky; her granddaughter Ginny; her siblings Jim, Cora, and Anna; her niece Pam; and her nephew Mark.

She is survived by her loving daughter: Ruth Bryant; siblings Elmo O’Dell (Donna), Peggy Barnwell, Juanita Womac, and David Henry (Teresa); her grandchildren: Mark, Becky, David (Jayla), Carol; and her cherished great-grandchildren: Joseph, Elizabeth, and Jordyn. She is also survived by her dear “twin friend,” Aida Wisecupp, and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Mary’s life was a testimony of God’s grace, lived out in service, sacrifice, and steadfast love. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship that will continue to inspire all who knew her.