Mary E. Stoltzfus

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her life, we announce the passing of our beloved MomMom, Mary (Ennis) Stoltzfus, who went home to be with the Lord on June 18, 2025, at the age of 95. She was the widow of John P. Stoltzfus Sr., who passed in 2016 after nearly 70 years of marriage.

Mary is survived by her children: Gerald and Lorraine Stoltzfus of Atglen, PA; Joyce and Sebastian Naro of Falls, PA; Darlene and Gary Bassett of Fernandina Beach, FL; Donna and Bill Stoltzfus of Buhl, ID; and Gloria Stoltzfus of Lancaster, PA; her sister, Sarah Criswell, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, John Stoltzfus Jr., her sister, Ruth (Ennis) Jones, and brothers Henry and John Ennis. 

Mary knew the value of hard work, grit, and determination from an early age. Growing up in farming, she spent her childhood caring for family and milking cows before and after school. These early years shaped the kind, gentle, and grounded spirit that she carried throughout her life. She had the warmest smile, most joyful chuckle and you know you really got her going if she slapped her leg. 

Simply being near MomMom was a source of warmth and comfort. She made the best potato salad ever, and her vanilla pie was legendary—simple, sweet, and made with love. She was not afraid to roll up her sleeves and be a hands-on mother and grandmother whether it was canning cherries picked from the orchard or supervising the teardown of a barn. She would cheer us on at our high points and listen with a full heart when we needed support. Keep the Shaklee “foot cream” handy because it fixes just about anything she’d say. MomMom loved her family fiercely and if you were lucky enough to be loved by her, not only did you know it but you felt it. 

After her husband’s passing, Mary made the brave and adventurous decision to move to Idaho and live with Donna and Bill. She loved sitting outside in the warm sunshine, enjoying the company of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—both those living nearby and those visiting—whom she adored. She became an unofficial but highly respected farm manager where she would keep tabs on what calves were being born, helped ensure the towels for the creamery were freshly washed and folded, and made sure everyone that was helping on the farm was fed and cared for. MomMom and Donna were inseparable, often seen riding around town for milk deliveries. MomMom had an uncanny ability to know what each of the surrounding farmers was planning for their fields—a true testament to her connection to the land and the community. 

Mary was a woman of unwavering faith who loved God with her whole heart. Her life was a testament to grace, humility, and the quiet strength that comes from trusting in Him. She lived each day with a deep sense of purpose—always putting her family first and walking in kindness and love. 

We will celebrate MomMom’s life on Friday, June 27th. at Shivery Funeral Home, 111 Elizabeth Street, Christiana, PA, at 2:00 p.m. with a viewing time from 1 p.m. until time of service. Burial will occur following the ceremony at Andrew’s Bridge Mennonite Cemetery, followed by a meal at Maple Grove Church in Atglen. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and share stories, smiles, and tears.