3/1/2026
Mary W. Gehman, formerly of Berks County, went to be with her Lord on March 1, 2026 at 102 years of age. She was the daughter of Henry L. Gehman and Anna (Weber) Gehman. Mary was the last surviving member of her family, which included four sisters; Lena, Alice Good, Elsie, Veronica Youndt, and three brothers; Aaron, John, and Allen. Aunt Mary will be greatly missed by her many nieces and nephews and their families.
Mary grew up on a farm near Alleghenyville, working with her family to prepare vegetables, flowers, cup cheese, etc. for sale at local markets. Although not privileged to attend high school, she enjoyed learning and pursued further education at Eastern Mennonite College, and eventually earned a Master’s Degree from Kutztown University.
Mary taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grades at Gehman’s Mennonite School from 1954 to 1957. Then she went to Somalia, as a missionary, where she spent many years teaching English. She loved this work. Returning from Somalia, Mary taught English as a second language at Gehman’s School and in the Cocalico School District.
Since 2005, Mary has been a resident of Landis Homes Retirement Community. As a final act of service to humanity, Mary donated her body to science.
A memorial service will be held at Gehman Mennonite Church, 127 Witmer Road, Reinholds, PA on Saturday, March 21 beginning at 10:30am.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Caring Fund at Landis Homes, or to EMM General Fund.