Mary Anderson

(From Knell Mortuary)

Mary Louise Anderson, 100, Carthage, Missouri, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, at the Solace House, Joplin, Missouri. She was born on August 10, 1925, in Reading, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Paul Koch and Mary L. (Winkleman) Koch.

Mary's journey began as the cherished daughter of a close-knit family in Reading, Pennsylvania. Her early years were filled with the warmth of family life, which set the foundation for the incredible woman she would become. Mary carried the values of her upbringing throughout her life, spreading love and joy to everyone she encountered. She married the love of her life, Henry Anderson, on July 19, 1945, in Columbus, Kansas, and together they shared 59 years of love and creating memories until his passing on March 22, 2005.

In her professional life, Mary was known for her diligent work at Burkshire Hosiery in Pennsylvania. She also supported her husband Henry on their farm, but her true vocation was that of a homemaker. Mary took immense pride in raising her children, Susan Sorg and Christie Snow, and maintaining an immaculate home where love was the main ingredient in every meal and comfort in every corner. Mary loved sharing stories of her early life and upbringing to her family, something she cherished dearly.

Mary's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was a dedicated member of the First Christian Church, Carthage (now The Bridge), where she actively participated in the church community. Her involvement extended to the Jolly Neighbors Extension Club and the CANDO Senior Center in Carthage, where she enjoyed the camaraderie and support of her peers. For 25 years, Mary was a vibrant part of the YMCA Silver Sneakers, embodying the club's spirit of health and fellowship. Her interests were diverse and full of life; she relished in bowling, volleyball, and canning vegetables from her bountiful garden. Sewing, going on trips, and exercising were among her favorite activities, but above all, Mary's heart belonged to her family.

Mary's legacy is carried on by her loving daughters, Susan Sorg and Christie Snow; her adoring grandchildren, Lisa Meyer (husband Jon), Adam Arcane (girlfriend Sarah Evans), Alexander Snow (wife Savannah), and Tyler Snow (girlfriend Lexie Garkse); and her cherished great-grandchildren, Francis Coffman (fiancée Laura Williams), Christopher Pate (wife Nicki), Dylan Whiteman, Skylar Sorg, Liam, Thora, and Silas Snow, Taylor and Joseph Meyer, and Chloe Hargis. Her joy was further multiplied by the arrival of her great-great-grandchildren, Isabelle and Ryan Pate. Mary's spirit will also be fondly remembered by many extended family members and a host of friends. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Paul, John, Donald, Robert, and Leon Koch; and her sisters, Ruth Hann and Edith Ramsey.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 pm, Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2 pm. The burial will follow at Diamond Cemetery, Diamond, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Solace House, Joplin, Missouri, in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.