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Celebration Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 2015, at First Christian Church of Flora
Visitation: 12 Noon-2 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 2015, at First Christian Church
Interment: Elmwood Cemetery
Mary Ann (Hardy) Brentlinger, 87, of Flora, Illinois, met Jesus, family, and friends on Sunday, January 18, 2015. Raised on a farm in Covington, Indiana, Mary Ann was a very hard worker. If you sat with her any length of time, she would tell you many precious stories of her childhood on a dairy farm. Being the eldest of four children, she and her mother did a lot of the cooking for the family, while the others did chores around the farm. Having had that experience early in life, she and Bob showed many versions of hospitality over the years to family, friends, missionaries, and neighbors.
Even very young, Mary Ann loved God with a great passion and desire for more knowledge. She attended Cincinnati Bible Seminary for four years. Upon a sister’s request after C.B.S. graduation, Mary Ann came to First Christian Church in Flora to be the secretary. Serving at FCC is where she met her husband, Bob Brentlinger. They celebrated 47 anniversaries, and raised three boys, John, Van, and Ted. She and Bob agreed early in marriage that family was first while the boys were young. Much later, knowing the college years were approaching for the boys, Mary Ann went back to school to get her teacher’s certificate.
Mary Ann had a special talent to teach the Word of God. By 87, she had taught every age group in church, ending with her “mature” ladies for several years. Also, this powerful ministry of teaching broadened to the public school in Flora for 24 years. Many of her students at Lincoln remember her bulletin board that quoted, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Her talents and services to God were evidenced by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and Church family. After retirement, she made many calls to share the Gospel to the sick. Bringing them cookies or lap blankets with the help of her mature friends was a delight to her. Bob and Mary Ann believed in the Great Commission of going to the ends of the earth to make disciples. Their priority of being involved in missions was evidenced in being forwarding agents for Dick Smith and family in Africa and New Zealand. Another mission highlight of Mary Ann’s was the annual Missionary Rally at FCC, where they fed, housed, and shared about missions all over the world.
She is survived by her children, John (Jene’) of Flora, Van (Debbie) of Geff, and Ted (Angie) of Geff; grandchildren, J.R. (Nikki) Brentlinger of Freeburg, Jamie (Billy) Lewis of Burnt Prairie, Lindy (Scott) McMillin of Lafayette, Indiana, Lauren (Clinten) Thompson of Grayson, Kentucky, Meghan (Jordan) Obrecht of Geff, and Kristin Brentlinger and friend, Bjorn Fjermedal of Wayne City; six great-grandchildren, Jase and Gentry Brentlinger, Will and Halle Lewis, and Jake and Charli McMillin; brother, Bob (Nellie) Hardy of Covington, Indiana, two sisters, Reva Hawkins of Dix, and Martha (Edward) Ratcliff of Kingman, Indiana. She was preceded in death by husband, Bob Brentlinger; brother-in-law, Grant Hawkins; and niece, Janetta Lane.
A celebration service for Mary Ann Brentlinger will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 2015, at First Christian Church of Flora. Visitation will be from 12 Noon until 2 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. Frank & Bright Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Cincinnati Christian University, Kentucky Christian University, or Christian Restoration Association.
Mary Ann was loved by her family, friends, and church, and memories of her prayers and promptings to be “faithful” to God will never be forgotten.
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We are so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers for your entire family. Mary Ann was such a kind soul. I first met her when she was teaching at Lincoln and I was in high school child care. She was so kind to me then and remained my friend every since. She always had a kind word and smile every time I saw her. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Our hearts and prayers are with you all. Mary Ann was so kind to me when I first started attending the First Christian Church many years ago. I always enjoyed talking with her. Such a sweet, kind, thoughtful, intelligent and Christian woman.
We extend our sympathy to all of you in the loss of our loved one. In the many, many years of friendship at First Christian Church and also being Burchwood neighbors we had greaat respect for Mary Ann and all of you boys and families. She will be missed greatly. Love, Sonny & Esther Hockman
I remember many years ago when Mary Ann and Bob were married and appreciated then as now her kindness and happy laughter for all. We were separated by many miles and never enjoyed living near them but was always interested in their family thru my sister and brother in law Brock. We were always excited at the births of the Brentlimger boys to whom we send our prayers and condolences. God bless these families with strength and eternal hope.
So saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Ann. She was truly a wonderful lady. She was a great friend, teacher and member of our church. I loved seeing here and talking with her on our visits home. She will be missed but I can say she definitely touched the hearts of many people. Blessings to her family.
John, Van, Ted and Families: We are very sorry for your loss. Not only was your mother an amazing teacher, she was an extraordinary woman! We've always been thankful she was Ryan's fourth grade teacher. She had such a sweet personality and smile...she will be missed by all who knew her. Y'all are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless❤️
So sorry for your loss, prayers of comfort.
We are sorry for your family loss and the loss to friends.
A wonderful, Christian lady. All three of my kids had her. She was a good teacher and Jeff's favorite teacher. I always enjoyed talking to her. Sorry for your loss. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Our sympathies to the family. Enjoyed Mary Ann so much. I so enjoyed our visits and talks. A wonderful lady and she will be greatly missed.
So sorry to all of the family. MaryAnn was a great lady and will be missed!
So saddened to hear of Mary Ann,s passing, prayers for her 3 sons and families...
Great Mother & Christian! God bless her Family!
With deepest sympathy
I want to extend my sympathy to the entire Brentlinger family. Mary Ann was a friend, a fellow teacher, and a Christian example to all. She will be missed but we know she has moved on to a far better place. May God grant each of you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
My Deepest Sympathy goes out to the family of Mary Ann. She was truly a very Special Lady. I thank God for the TIMES we shared weather it be in church somewhere or just visiting or putting a puzzle together. We shared memories of hard times and good times as well. We shared laughter as well as we would remember things from our past. She touched so many lives though the years. God has truly called another of his Angels home. The memories of this Special Lady will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY BETTY
I am sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family.
Mary Ann will be missed by the Church and indeed the entire town. She was a leader in Church, School and Home.
We want to send our condolences to the entire Brentlinger family and especially to our Principal Van Brentlinger. We got to meet Mrs. Brentlinger a couple of times here at Lincoln 4th Grade Center when she came over for Van's "productions". I know she was proud of him-- as we are too!!! Again, sorry for your loss.
Our sympathy to your family. Mary Ann was a very special lady.
John and Jene', Van, Ted and families I am so sorry about your loss. Mary Ann was a special friend. I enjoyed working with her and appreciated that she was Brock's teacher; he absolutely loved her. She was a great influence on all her students and made a difference in their lives. I especially loved the times we shared at each other's homes. She shared God's amazing love with everyone she met and knew. May you feel God's gracious arms wrapped around you, giving comfort at this difficult time. You know that she is with her Savior now. You are in my prayers.
We are praying for all of you. Your mother played a big role in our church growing up and she is surely enjoying a heavenly reward.
Mary Ann was a teacher by nature. She guided my children and made a positive impact on their life. May God's comforting hand be with all of you during this time of reflection and hope.
How privileged I feel to have known Mary Ann! She was so kind, intelligent, and loving. She had such a passion for her family and her Savior. My condolences to her family as they grieve such an amazing lady. I am so grateful for the many precious memories I have of her. Although it is sad to see her go, what great joy I have knowing that after all her years and years of service she is receiving the ULTIMATE REWARD!
So sorry for your lost that when we lost my son shaun wood on janaury 24 1998 iam so sorry you lost your mom i lost my mom in march of 2014 my god bless your family
Sorry for the family loss of a precious lady, one many loved and respected. I remember her and was blessed to have known her through school, and was proud of her openness of her Christian faith and remember her Bible being displayed on her desk, her future in Heaven is assured because of the life she led.
Mary Ann was a lovely lady who will be sorely missed by all whose lives she touched.
Wonderful mother, wife, and beautiful person. Prayers to all who love her.
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you celebrate the life of Mary Ann.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I spent a lot of time at church under the teachings of Mrs. Brentlinger!
I am sorry for your loss of your loved one. Mary Ann was an admirable and outstanding lady. May the fond memories help to bring comfort and peace during this time.
Words cannot express the deep sadness I felt on hearing of Mary Ann's passing. She has been an inspiration to me since I came to FCC to worship. Her life is an example to others that knowing Jesus can make a difference.
Mary Ann was a dear christian friend, and will be greatly missed.
Keeping your family in our prayers! Sorry for your loss!
Mary Ann and Bob lived across the street from us for many years. She was such a nice, gentle woman. Don was there, and saw Bob fall and pass away in their yard. Many years ago. They were nice people. So sorry for Mary Ann's passing.
So sorry for your loss. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Remembering all the many students she played the piano for in many years of band programs of the Flora schools. She was a great lady that will surely be missed by all that knew her.
It was heartbreaking to hear of the loss of Mary Ann. Reading her obituary really gives a wonderful representation of all she did for our Lord. She is finally Home. Prayers for all.
She is truly going to be missed. What a wonderful legacy she has left for us all.
My condolences to the family.
Many fond memories of Mary Ann. You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
I have wonderful memories of Mary Ann at First Christian Church. My sincere sympathy to her family on their loss.
I am so sorry for your loss. I will never forget Mary Ann- she was my Pen-pal in grade school. When we were able to spend time with our Pen-pals at school, she would bring me Werther's hard candy and I absolutely loved it. She was such a sweet woman and will never be forgotten.
Van, John, Ted and families. I just found out about your mom's passing and I am so very sorry. She was a wonderful woman and I have so many great memories of her and will always cherish those. Thinking of all of you and praying for comfort for you during this tough time.
She was my 4th grade teacher growing up. I have many fond memories of being in her class, especially when she taught the "Golden Rule", and how she made us memorize "The Night Before Christmas" for a classroom presentation to our families. She was a blessing to many.
Mary Ann truly lived her life in service for the Lord. She not only taught by the word but lived it in action. Her race was won. Her love for Christ will be missed. God Bless the family.
She was always a woman of conviction. She loved the Lord and her family. She will be missed. Thoughts and prayers for her family. God Bless.
I am so sorry for your loss.
I share the admiration for Mary Ann Brentlinger that has been expressed by so many--particularly her love for the Lord and her lifelong desire to serve Him. I also admire Aunt Mary Ann for the tenacity she showed in handling a number of physical ailments throughout her life--cancer, heart surgery, arthritis, etc. Pain and physical limitations did not keep her from continuing to minister to others and to do so with grace and a smile. I must also mention that I was constantly amazed at her memory, especially regarding names, dates and important events. She was a walking historian! Certainly she loved her family and was so proud of each one. She kept up regular contact with her extended family members as well. I have been blessed to have had an aunt like Mary Ann and I will certainly miss her, but she has given to me and countless others a beautiful picture of what it looks like to "...do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God." Micah 6:8
John, Van, Ted and family,Mary and I want you to know that your families are in our thoughts and prayers. Your mother was a very special lady to both of us and we considered her a very dear friend. I know she is in a better place but she will surely be missed by many. She was a great Christian example to all that she met. We are truly sorry we are unable to attend the Celebration Service but we will be there in spirit. May God Bless and Keep you as you say your final goodbyes.
She was such a sweet lady and she will be missed! So glad that she knew Jesus and is walking those streets of glory now!
We are so sorry for your loss. Since I was a little girl I could always count on Mary Ann for a hug or a good hard pat on the back when I saw her at church. She was a great woman and I'm sure she will be greatly missed.
"Mrs Brentlinger" played a huge role in my early life. I will never forget her. I am sad to hear of her passing. She was a very special woman. My thoughts are with you.
I'm so sorry to hear of Mrs. Brentlinger's passing. She was my Kindergarten and 4th Grade teacher at Lincoln Grade School. I have very fond memories of her! I will miss her.
Our Sympathy to your family. Mary Ann had a servant heart and love of God that radiated through her beautiful smile. Bob and Mary Ann were great friends to Jo and Murray and touched our lives as well David & Carol Kimbrel Stephen & Marilyn Kimbrel
I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Brentlinger. My kids loved her as a teacher. She really brought out the best in children. I didn't find out about it until it was too late. We would have honored her by attending her visitation. Again, sorry for your loss. She was a great lady, wonderful teacher, and true Christian.
Sorry for your loss, Prayers for the family.
i am sorry for your loss. I didn't know Mrs. Brentlinger but I knew Ted and he was definitely raised right. I always heard great things about her and know that her kids were all hard workers and had high morales and values. God Bless!
John, Van, and Ted, our families have been blessed to have our mothers live to be in their nineties. We know they are rejoicing in heaven, free of their pain, but it still hurts to have them gone. I have a vivid image of your mom leading opening exercises" before Sunday School in the Junior High Department. She challenged us with contests and Bible drills to learn memory verses. Thanks to her I have scripture in my heart that I wouldn't have had otherwise. What a priceless legacy for her to give to all the children that were under her at church and school! Her life exemplified her love for God, her family, and friends. We were all blessed for having known her. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
It was of great sadness that I learned of MaryAnn's passing, please accept my heartfelt condolence. May I say that I dearly loved MaryAnn! My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time. I will always remember her fondly and have wonderful memories of the many times we shared at First Christain Church in my youth and also in the following years. She leaves behind a wonderful christain family that she adored dearly! I recall the conversations we had and she expressed how proud she was of each one of each one of you.She taught me so many wonderful things. I learned a lot about God from her. She was an amazing person.May God's peace be with you at this time.Cherish the moments you all shared with her and she will always be in your hearts! God took an wonderful Angel home. She will be missed!!! In Smpathy and Love
John, Van, Ted & families: Please accept my sympathy, she has received her final reward. Please know you are very much in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Your sorrow is shared by everyone who knew her. Most sincerely, Diana Kuhlig Hatton, Vincennes IN.
What a wonderful legacy. My condolences to the family.
John, Van, and Ted, Sorry to hear about your mother. She always had a smile and was one of the best mothers in our neighborhood. She had a great friendliness and hospitality about her. I always felt welcomed into your home by your mother. My memories of her are very good ones.
Mrs. Brentlinger was my kindergarten and 4th. grade teacher at Lincoln. The last time I saw her in 2014, she not only remembered but called me by name. She was a wonderful woman and left a positive influence on all! Will always picture her smiling face watching down from heaven over her family.
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