Mary Phyllis Stiltner

Mary grew up with two sisters and two brothers on Black River on a family farm that included gardens, timber, an abundance of animals, and orchards that she especially loved. She graduated from Rochester High School in 1948 and maintained friendships with her classmates throughout her life. Mary met the love of her life, Ray Stiltner, in her senior year of high school. They were married in June 1948 and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this year.

Mary is survived by her husband, Ray of Vancouver; children, Patti (Carl) Green of Spokane, Pam (Jay) Winter of Vancouver, John (Gail) Stiltner of Centralia, and Peggy Allen of Vancouver. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and 23 great- grandchildren.

Mary retired from the Washington State Department of Licensing after 25 years and went on to prepare meals for children in the Child Development Center at Centralia College.

She was a member of the Centralia Nazarene Church for many years where she worshiped and made life-long friends. Mary had a very active social life. She had the gift of hospitality and was a fabulous cook. She is especially known for her apple pie with a flaky crust that melted in your mouth. Mary was an incredibly gifted knitter. She created beautiful Christmas stockings, table runners, afghans, hundreds of baby blankets, slippers, scarves, felted purses, and exquisite lace. Many of these items were gifted to friends, family and even strangers. She loved the ocean, and her family has many fond memories of spending time together in Seaside, Ore. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings and beloved son-in-law, Ken Allen.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 at 4 p.m. at the Centralia Nazarene Church, 1119 West First Street, Centralia, WA 98531. Flowers can be sent to the church or to Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 South Gold, Centralia, WA 98531

Visitation at the funeral chapel will be held on Friday, Oct. 11, 2013 from 3:00-6:00 p.m., and on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A private graveside service will precede the memorial service.