Lois Altmaier just told me of Mary's death after I posted a photo of sister Becky from our 5th grade Minuet at University Elementary School.

I remember so well going to play at the Spencer's house: Mary was such a cute and sweet little sister. My sympathies for the whole family! I hope Becky will get in touch as I have thought of her often.

Mary was one of my favorite cousins on my mom's side. She was always stuck watching my sister and I, as we were the youngest at the time of all of our holiday and family gatherings. She was always so kind and sweet to me. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts go out to her children and sisters. I will miss you Mary!

So sorry to hear about Mary's passing I remember her fondly from U-High

When I first met Mary she was attending U High. I like her immediately because of her gentleness, constant smile and sensitivity. It is rare to meet someone with her gentleness. Later I her again when we were scoring at ACT. Because of her sensitivity I think she always struggled and I wished I could help. As I write this I see an orb of rainbow light. Perhaps she is telling me she understands. I am wishing Mary well where she, is on the other side of the veil, as well as her family on this side. Godspeed.

So sorry to hear your loss. Your mom was a very nice woman.

My thoughts and prayers are with Mary's children and their families in this time of sorrow. I remember Mary fondly from our times spent together at family gatherings. She was always sweet and gentle and helped looked after the younger kids, including me. Time has passed and we have spread out across the states but family and memories are never forgotten, love to all.

I am so very sorry to learn of the Mary's passing. She was truly a kind and loving person. I have great memories of growing up next door to Mary and her great friendship. My deepest sympathy to all her family.

To the larew Siblings - Hart, Valerie, Sarah and Tyler

I was so shocked And saddened to hear the news of Your mom's passing. Your mom was a wonderful, thoughtful and caring lady. My thoughts are With you all during this time. You remain in our prayers.

Lots of hugs !

Rich and I send our deepest sympathy to the family of Mary. My memories of Mary are filled with love and alot of cousin fun - putting on plays - laughing . Visiting the Spencer Cousins was just about the best thing in my book of childhood memories. I will always remember Mary's sweetness - her kind and gentle ways - and her great smile and laughter. She gave her warmth and love. As you gather together tonight in her honor - our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Sweet Mary with the sunshine smile and gentle spirit...I love you...I will remember you...RIP.

My sympathies to Mary's siblings and her children.We had little contact over the years but I remember her as being friendly and kind.

Mary was so pleasant, such a very kind person. I enjoyed working with Mary on many educational testing projects over several years at NCS/Pearson in Iowa City. My sincere sympathy to her family and friends.

My sympathy and prayers are with you. Mary was so caring and kind. She will be greatly missed. God bless.

I have known the family for 28 years now and am deeply saddened by the passing of this great woman. She was a second mother to me growing up. I have so many fond memories of her that I will always cherish. Mary was a kindhearted lady and she will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP Mary.

I grew up with Sarah and remain best friends with her-Mary was the kindest, sweetest mother and friend anyone could have asked for. Everyone that knew her knows that she always had a smile on her face and would do anything for her kids-Hart, Val, Tyler & Sarah, Halle and anyone. I feel very blessed to have known Mary for the last 25 years and the great memories we made together. I love her and the whole family!

Love you Heather

Mary was a very sweet and kind woman. I always enjoyed running in to her and visiting with her. She was an easy person to be around. She will be greatly missed.

I was childhood friends with Sarah and I remember Mary would always great me with a smile. My thoughts are with Sarah and her whole family!

My condolences for the loss of Mary.

Mary was always so kind and peaceful. Whenever she would pick up or drop off Halle at Willowwind she was so full of smiles and cheer. Reading these other comments it is apparent that Mary had a life of positive impact on others. She was truly a caring and selfless woman and the world would be a much better place if we all would follow her example. She will be missed but her kindness will not be forgotten.

Abby and I are saddened to hear of Mary's death. She was the epitome of sweetness and kindness. Although it has been years since we have seen any of you Spencers, we keep you in our hearts. Our deepest sympathy to Mary's family.

from summer days swimming at the city park pool when we were teenagers...to bumping into each other somewhere in Iowa City...it was always wonderful to catch up with Mary. a quiet smile, quick wit and friendly, mary always asked about our family with concern and care. i was very saddened to see that those visits will now be something of only a memory. no more seeing mary at the stop light next to me. at hy vee. throughout iowa city.

to each of you, her family and friends, know that my warmest hugs surround each of you today and always. and mary....i will miss you!

I am stunned and saddened to hear this news. I just ran into Mary last week at the grocery store. It was too crowded for us to do much visiting. She and I worked together for many years in educational assessment, and she was a natural-born stress defuser, always ready with some silly comment. She truly had a heart of pure gold. What a loss for us all, but it is with a grateful heart that I reflect back on our friendship. Rest in peace and comfort, Mary, and know that those of us lucky enough to have known you are truly better for the experience.

You will be missed. A better neighbor would be impossible to find. Rest well Mary, in the arms of the Lord.