I can't believe it's been a year already. I know God makes no mistakes but I wish he could have left her here a little longer. I know those babies miss her .  i miss her so much. Family stay strong she would want you too.

It doesn't seem like a year since Mary died. I was in Chattanooga recently, near where she lived. I felt an empty spot in my heart, knowing she wasn't there.  I'm so glad we'll see Mary in our heavenly home. 

Mary was one of the sweetest and most caring person I have ever known and the world is a much sadder place because of her passing.  



Several years ago I had the privilege of working w Mary (RN) at Erlanger Hospital (WW3). One day as we arrived for work Mary presented me with a book of Prayers for Nurses; in
 it she had written that she greatly appreciated the manner in which I provided care for patients. To this day I often read her inscription and  I am encouraged by the prayers.   Family, be encouraged as she is now in the Arms of her loving Savior.

Fred McCray (RN)


Mrs. Ketterer - 

Every night I lie awake wondering what to say. I’ve always wished ever since I was a kid that you could give me a little bit of the grace you lived your life with. You were a great holder of space - quiet and always smiling that gentle smile, ready either to laugh or cock one eyebrow way way up your forehead. I wondered at your personality my whole childhood. How could a person be so steady? So selfless? So quietly kind? You made me ask important questions, the kind that help grow up a person, just by being in the same room. And what wonderful people you made: Lizzy, Jonny, Rebecca. What a good time we all had playing together. Petting rabbits. Building silly little boats. All while you worked and watched silently from the kitchen window. You gave my life my Lizzy. Who would we all even be without you having lived so beautifully? You are the salt that is salty. Stay close by, with your quiet peace. 

-Emmie   

I just wanted you to know that I was able to visit with Mary and Barry spontaneously at the end of October or early November.  Barry pulled up a chair for me, and we began to talk about how Barry and Mary met and where they grew up and various experiences they had in the years before I knew them.  I was so glad that Barry just let me pop over and visit for a few minutes.  I enjoyed hearing the many different stories about their families.  I will always treasure that time of just being together.
Carla Stevenson

 Rest in peace Mary and thank you for being such a great person wife and mother to my brother and your children we will meet one day.
Love,
Charlotte 

Through my friendship with Lizzy I inherited Mrs Letterer as a second mother. Even though I haven't lived in Chattanooga since high school graduation, she always kept up with where I was and what was going on in my life. Her genuine love for all showed through in every single relationship she had. She is where she has always belonged-in heaven with all the other angels and her savior!

Mary Ketterer served with me in Awana Cubbies from 9 4-96, when I was the director, & even other years.  I remember her sweetness most of all. I'm glad that I knew her through our mutual membership at Duncan Park Baptist Church. My heart is sad at her earthly departure, & also is sad for her family & other friends. 

Mrs. Mary has always been an inspiration to me. Hard working and most of all a loving , caring person . She will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Lizzy and my daughter swam together at GWU, they were roommates their freshman year. I remember meeting Mary for the first time as she walked into the dorm-room and said, “wow, this is small”!!  We decorated it together and tried to make the space as cozy and home-like as possible. Then I remember on traveling swim meets, the entire Ketterer family would gather in the lobby and play board games between swim sessions! She was a loving and thoughtful ‘Swim mom’!! A beautiful person. Rest In Peace, Mary. 

Mary was always so kind and welcoming. Even in her last days, she was optimistic and inviting to others. Watching her and Barry’s love for one another was inspirational. 

Mary was a very special friend to me . She was in my wedding. She supported me when I went to the mission field to teach two boys who parents were working at an hospital in Irian Jaya,  I will miss her!

Mrs. Mary was truly one of  God's  very special souls.  To me she was an Angel of mercy. I miss her so much.  May God be comfort during this time of loss to the family. 

Mary was my roommate in nursing school, and we were so close.  I treasure those memories. My heart aches to know she's gone before us. Heaven is a sweeter place.

My heart is flooded with such wonderful memories of Mary during our years as Erlanger nursing students.  We lived on the same floor at the dorm, studied together, went to DPBC together.   She lived a beautiful life honorIng Jesus. I have enjoyed looking at all the great pictures that are posted.  May all of you have God’s comfort and peace in the days ahead as I know you miss her dearly.

Mrs. Mary was such a saint. She always showed compassion to every person she interacted with at any given time. She always had a smile on her face even when she may not have felt like smiling. I worked with her a short period of time, but knew right away that she was truly a woman after God's own heart. I will never let go of the impression she made on me and others: be kind, show understanding and love people. You will be missed Mrs. Mary. 

Mary was the kindest most gracious woman I think I ever met.  It was a privilege to work with her and see the example she set for others with her service and patience.   Words can’t express how sorry I am for her loss.  My prayers to the family for comfort.

Mary was my friend, I loved her. She was truly one of God's angels.  Barry and her daughter's and those 8 grandchildren were the love of her life.  She is not suffering anymore. The family is in my prayers.

To my dear friend Mary Cornelius:  I miss you.  What a faithful friend you have been.  Thank you so much for all you have done for me.  You have taught me many things about life.  May you rest in peace.    Barry, you are in my thoughts and prayers.  I am so sorry for this loss in your life.  Mary was an amazing wife and mom - there will be a hole in your family's heart this Christmas.  I will be praying for you and the children and the grandchildren.        Rev. 21:4 

I am so sorry to hear of Mary's passing.    She was a kind, patient woman and full of faith in God.  My condolences to Barry, Becca and Lizzie and the rest of the family.  Mary will be fondly remembered.

OBITUARY

Mary Ketterer

November 17, 1956 – December 13, 2021

Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-Valley View Chapel

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