Mary Gay Bacon passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, kindness, and quiet strength. Though our hearts are broken, we are comforted by the countless lives she touched and the enduring example she leaves behind.

Mary was born on May 18, 1935. She attended Drury ________ ___ ____________ ___ souri, where she furthered her education and developed a lifelong love of learning.

A devoted Christian, Mary’s faith was the foundation of her life. She was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee, where she found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving others. Earlier in her life, she faithfully taught at St. Paul’s Apostolic Church, sharing God’s Word with compassion and dedication and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she taught.

Mary believed in serving her community and was a proud member of the League of Women Voters, encouraging civic engagement and thoughtful participation in public life.

She had a remarkable gift for making things grow. An exceptional gardener, Mary found joy and peace in ________ _______ ____ ________ _________ _______ _________ she lived. She also loved cooking and baking, expressing her love for family through the meals she prepared and the traditions she shared around the table.

One of Mary’s greatest joys was traveling with her beloved husband, Will. Together they explored many beautiful places, especially the islands, creating trea- ______ _________ _____ _________ ______ _____ _____ ____ ____ another and their appreciation for God’s creation.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willard S. Bacon; her parents, Leon and Helen Doris Hornkohl; and her brothers, Marc Hornkohl, Owen Hornkohl, and Jim Hornkohl.

She is survived by her three sons, James (Juanice) Kiser, Jon (Gina) Kiser, and Patrick (Kathy) Kiser; her cherished grandchildren, Jessica (Brad) Hill, Matt Kiser, Holly Kiser, Claire Kiser, and Sophia Kiser; her treasured great-grandchildren, Cason Hill, Pippa Hill, and Winnie Hill; and many extended family members, dear friends, and members of her church family who will forever cherish her memory.

Mary’s life was a beautiful testament to faith, family, and love. She was the heart of her family, and the seeds of faith, kindness, and compassion she planted in those she loved will continue to bear fruit for generations to come. Though she is deeply missed, her family rejoices in the promise that she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., followed by the celebration of life at 2:00 p.m.

___ _____ ___ ________ _________ ______________ ____ ___ made to First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee.