Mary Frances Crane of Lafayette passed away peacefully on November 30, surrounded by family. She was born on January 1, 1938, to George and Grace Blind. She grew up on the family farm near Pine Village, Indiana and graduated as valedictorian from Pine Village High School in 1956. On November 22, 1956, she married Phillip Crane of Pine Village, who survives. Mary was an active member of Bethany Presbyterian Church for over 50 years and served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and Women’s Bible study leader. Mary was a dedicated homemaker who had also worked as a secretary at the church and at the Journal and Courier. After Phil’s retirement, they enjoyed traveling and frequently accompanied their children and grandchildren on trips.  She took great pleasure in her grandchildren and always enjoyed spending time with them as well as attending their sporting, academic, and music events. She enjoyed cats, gardening, baking and cheering on the Boilers.  An avid Cub fan, Mary was excited by their 2016 World Series championship.

Survivors include her sister and life-long best friend Carole Fletcher of Lafayette, daughter Carrie (Dale) Mellen of Hilliard, OH, sons Mark and James (Kathleen) Crane both of Wheaton, IL. Grandchildren Bradley Mellen, Jessica Crane and Joseph, Erin and Stephen Crane also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandson Jared Crane.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd.  Memorial service will be at 10:30 am Thursday at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 3305 Longlois Drive, Lafayette, Rev. Kevin Bowers officiating.  Private interment will be at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens in West Lafayette.  In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations to either the Alzheimer’s Association or Bethany Presbyterian Church.