Obituary for Mary E. Clinger

Mary E. Clinger, age 97, of Marion, Ohio, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Marion General Hospital. She was born July 9, 1929, in Wyandot County, to the late Emery E. and Mildred V. (Roby) Walton. Mary married Paul Quail Clinger on August 26, 1956, and they shared 38 years together before he preceded her in death on October 6, 1994.

She is survived by her three children, William (Joetta) Clinger of Harpster, Ruth (Tom) Johnston of Marion, and Thomas Clinger of Marion; three grandchildren, Sarah (Dave) Dibling, Jacob (Brooke) Johnston, and Amber Hoffman; and five great-grandchildren, Calvin, Clara, Rhett, Nelle, and Grace. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Adam Johnston; eight brothers, Daniel, David, Franklin, Albert, Reuben, Charles, James, and William Walton; and three sisters, Ilah Mae Osborn, Clara Belle Sheaffer, and Anna Marie Fox.

Mary graduated from Upper Sandusky High School with the class of 1948. She continued her education at Grant Nursing School in Columbus, graduating in 1954 as a registered nurse. Throughout her life, Mary embraced her roles as a nurse, devoted homemaker, and helping hand on the family farm. A woman of strong Christian faith, Mary was a devoted member of Salem United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School and served as a Bible Study Fellowship leader. She also belonged to the Gideons International Auxiliary of Wyandot County and United Methodist Women. Her faith was an important part of her life.

Mary had a special love for gardening and was happiest when working in her garden. She took great pride in growing her own food and generously sharing it with family, friends, and neighbors. An excellent cook, Mary enjoyed preparing meals and making sure everyone had plenty to eat. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, caring heart, and devotion to her family.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026, in Bringman-Clark Funeral Home, with Rev. Betsy Bowen officiating. Interment will follow in Salem Cemetery, Mifflin Township, Wyandot County. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Bringman-Clark Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be made to Gideons International or Samaritan’s Purse in care of Bringman-Clark Funeral Home, 226 East Wyandot Avenue, Upper Sandusky, Ohio, 43351.

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