Mary Stemple

Mary Jane (Westfall) Stemple, 76, of Aurora, passed away on January 11, 2025, at her home with her family by her side. Born in Cherry Falls, WV, on October 30, 1948, she was raised by her late foster parents Kenny and Gwen Hebb.

Growing up with the Hebb family, there were many chores and learning curves, but the one mandatory lifestyle was a love for music. Meeting on Saturday nights with family and friends was a way of life and she continued this long into her adult years. She attended the Stemple Ridge Centennial Union Church for over 50 years and was a member of the Rebekah's and the Mountain Lions Club for 20 plus years. Mary was an accomplished cake decorator for many weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties and special occasions. She loved watching and became an expert in the Wizard of Oz, Wagon Train and Daniel Boone. Mary was also a Sunday School teacher for many years. One endearing story that we have been told is how she was always smiling and was such a wonderful teacher and person. Beth Bishop said that she always prayed that Mary would be voted in as her teacher every year. She loved the way Mary always looked so good and she always smelled wonderful. Mary continued to give presents to her "favorite" student Beth, until she turned 20 years old. Beth said that she will forever remember this. Anyone truly knowing Mary knew she was the talk of the town for her Hummingbirds. With many feeders and filling them up 5 times a day, it was a full-time job but was a labor of love. She will be truly missed.

She is survived by her children, Melody Hubbard and husband Rick of Aurora, and Kevin Stemple and wife Jamie of Eglon; two granddaughters, Kelsey North and husband Derek of Morgantown, and Abigail Hubbard of Aurora; two great-grandsons, Jaxon and Malachi North of Morgantown; siblings, Ralph Hebb and wife Narel, Perry Hebb and wife Mazie, Sis Burns and husband Butch, Allen Hebb and wife Tammy; and sisters in law, Bonnie Knotts and husband Steve, Betty Moore and husband Charlie, Nancy Ridenour, Janet Sliger and husband Larry; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her foster parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Erwin Stemple; and brothers, Kenny Hebb and Billy Westfall; and a brother in law, Blake Ridenour.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Stemple Ridge Cemetery 5315 Stemple Ridge Rd., Aurora, WV 26705.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 4 to 7 PM, at the Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home, 567 Thomas Ave., Davis. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 11 AM in the funeral home with Pastor Mike Lantz officiating. Friends will be received one hour prior to the service. Interment will be private in the Stemple Ridge Cemetery.

The Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home is honored to be serving Mary's family.