Mary Louise Recker

Mary Louise Recker, 97, of DeMotte, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Oak Grove. Born on September 24, 1928, in Momence, Illinois, Mary was the beloved daughter of Steve and Agnes (Peterson) Weinert. She graduated with the Class of 1946 from Mt. Ayr High School before pursuing her passion for teaching. Mary devoted ten years to shaping young minds as a kindergarten teacher at DeMotte Christian School, where her lively spirit, patience, and love for children left a lasting impact on generations of students and families. On September 7, 1977, Mary married James Anton Recker in DeMotte, Indiana. Together they shared many years of faith, love, and companionship until James’s passing on January 23, 2013. Mary was a devoted member of Bethel Christian Reformed Church in DeMotte, where she faithfully served by teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Her deep faith was central to her life, and she found great joy in fellowship through several Bible study groups, encouraging others through her wisdom, servanthood, and unwavering trust in God. Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her children, LaVerne (the late Gary) Jordan of Manteno, Illinois, and Karen (Jim) Getz of Lansing, Michigan; her stepchildren, James (Sue) Recker of Randolph, Wisconsin, Janice (the late Jack) LaMar of Stuart, Florida, and Ken (Glenna) DeVries of DeMotte, Indiana; 23 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 16 great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Donna (the late Bud) Edgeman of Lake Village, Indiana; and her daughter-in-law Luann (the late Jeryld) Recker of Fair Oaks, Indiana, along with many extended family members and dear friends who were blessed by her life. She was preceded in death by her husband, James; and her stepdaughter, Gayle DeVries. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Mary at Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte on Monday, May 4, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at Bethel Christian Reformed Church on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Jeremy Oosterhouse officiating. Mary will be laid to rest at Holland Cemetery. In honor of Mary’s lifelong love of Christian ministry, memorial contributions may be made to DeMotte Christian Schools, Bethel Christian Reformed Church, or Oak Grove Retirement Village.

Mary Louise Recker

September 24, 1928 - April 27, 2026