Mary Lou Sechrist, age 94, passed away on January 12, 2025 at Freeman Hospital due to a sudden decline in health.

Mary Lou was born April 22, 1930 in Kansas City, Missouri, to Lee and Betty Gangel.

She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Joplin, Missouri. She retired from the Social Security Administration. Mary Lou, prior to her husband's passing enjoyed being a part of the "Meals on Wheels" program and volunteering at Spring River Christian Village, where she resided. She was very active in aquatic exercise at the Joplin Family Y. She was faithful to keep her body moving!

Mary Lou married Gordon on July 30, 1950 and celebrated 70 years together prior to his passing on May 24, 2021. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and a sister-in-law.

She is survived by her care givers, Nancy and John Messick, as well as numerous close friends from Spring River Chistian Village, Joplin Family Y, and St. Mary's Catholic Church.

A memorial Mass will be 2:00 pm Tuesday January 21, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church with Fr. Joe Weinbrenner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory are requested to the Joplin Family Y and may be sent in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.