(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)Mary Helen Ewing, 93, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully in her home on February 28, 2026. Born June 22, 1932, in Joplin to Roscoe and Iola Smith (and later her step-dad Fred Wilson), Mary Helen was a lifelong resident of the community she dearly loved.
On July 12, 1952, she married the love of her life, Gaylen Ewing, in Eureka Springs. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion, and were blessed with three daughters. Mary Helen’s greatest joy was her family, and she poured her love generously into each generation.
She was the perfect combination of sugar with a little bit of spice. She found simple pleasures in life, especially in the beauty of nature. Mary Helen delighted in watching hummingbirds and treasured yellow roses. Known to family and friends as “Nanny”, she was an avid baker, especially renowned for her pies. Her loved ones never missed a birthday without a special pie from Nanny.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gaylen Ewing; her parents, Roscoe and Iola Smith (Fred Wilson); and her three brothers, Raymond Smith, Norman Smith, and Gene Smith.
Mary Helen is survived by her daughters, Elsie Lynn Crume, Rebecca White, Tammy Perry (Jamie Perry); niece Julianne Hare; nine grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Mason-Woodard Chapel.
Visitation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, also at Mason-Woodard Chapel.
Mary Helen’s life was one of enduring love, and faithful presence. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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