Mary Margaret Hollis, 78, passed away peacefully on September 25th, 2024. She was born on May 4th, 1946, to the late William and Virginia Aper in Lafayette, IN, and lived her entire life loving and serving that community.
Mary started her faith journey as a young girl by attending Hope Chapel with some loving neighbors who took an interest in her. This ignited her curiosity for Christ which later grew into her passion for serving.
Mary graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1964, the same year her Bronchos won the Boys Basketball State Championship. She was so proud to be part of the Block Section, where she met a group of lifelong friends, she called the “Broncho Girls”.
She married her beloved husband, Jerry, at Hope Chapel on September 5th, 1964. They were quickly blessed with three children and began imparting their love, strong work ethic, and service to others into them. Mary later began working at McCutcheon High School as the Head Secretary, which she thoroughly enjoyed. She touched the lives of numerous students and faculty with her humor, caring spirit and warmth.
Wherever Mary was involved, she had an impact on people. She often spread joy while serving at Salvation Army. She attended several churches along the way and gained friends she called “family” at each stop, including the “Belles” of Linden, her “McDonald’s Girls”, and at her current church home, Brady Lane Church, which she cherished.
One of her most memorable experiences was a 1997 trip to the Holy Lands, which had a profound impact on her spiritual life. After her ordination on September 11th, 2011, Mary officiated several weddings and funerals. She gave constant support and guidance to countless individuals, leading many to find their faith in Christ through her example.
Mary leaves behind her loving husband of 60 years, Jerry Hollis; daughter, Julia Haffley (Guy); son, Bradley Hollis (Spencer); six grandchildren, Daniel, Thomas, Jacob, Sam, Claire, Georgia; three great-grandchildren, River, Raine, Charles. Mary was preceded in death by her lovely daughter, Angela Atwood.
Mary’s kindness and nurturing spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in her honor.
Visitation will be from 10:00 am until time of service at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Soller-Baker, Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., Lafayette, IN 47909 with Rev. Jeff Keller officiating.