In Memory
Mary Jo (Whitacre) Hall
August 12, 1937 ~ January 14, 2026 (age 88)
Mary Jo Hall, a cherished educator, devoted Christian, passed away on January 14, 2026, at the age of 88 in Mishawaka, IN. Born on August 12, 1937, in South Bend, IN, to the late Arnett and Loa (Seifer) Whitacre, Mary Jo's early years were shaped by a loving family and a community that would become the tapestry of her long and influential life. She graduated from Clay High School in 1955.
The loss of her husband, John R. Hall, as well as her siblings Donna (Ken) Boseker, Sharon Whitacre, Timothy Whitacre, and William (Mildred) Whitacre, brothers-in-law Thomas Hall, and sister-in-law , Joyce M. McCune was deeply felt over the years. Yet Mary Jo's resilience shone brightly as she continued to embody the attributes of faith and intelligence that were hallmarks of her character. She is survived by sister-in-law Dixie Hall of Mishawaka and adored by her nieces Millicent (Robert Newcomer) Sowell, Marlene (Rob) Choromokos, as well as nephews Daniel (Christine) Martin. Wayne Witacre and Donovan (Camille) Martin.
Mary Jo's academic journey led her to earn a master’s degree in education from Indiana University, that foundation of knowledge playing a pivotal role in her 40-year tenure as an educator. Most notably, she dedicated 14 years to enriching minds at Niles Community School before retiring in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of inspired students and grateful colleagues.
Together with her beloved John, Mary Jo established the Berrien Bible Church and remained an active member, encouraging her community to seek and embrace spiritual growth. Every Wednesday, her home resonated with the sounds of scripture and fellowship as she hosted a Bible study for friends, reinforcing her reputation as a faith-filled and nurturing spirit.
Mary Jo was a respected member of the Michigan Retired Teachers Association and National Education Association, through which she further contributed to the development and support of educational excellence. Her commitment to her faith and profession showed the depth of her loving nature and her dedication to serving others.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00pm Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Palmer Funeral Home – River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawaka Ave., South Bend, IN 46615 with Pastor Roy Keable officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00am until the time of the service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grace College, Advancement Office, 1 Lancer Way, Winona Lake, IN 46590, www.grace.edu/give.
Condolences online may be expressed to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
To remember Mary Jo is to recall the warmth of her gentle guidance, the resonance of her intelligent discourse, and the enduring influence of her faith-filled life. Each life she touched stands as a testament to the loving legacy she leaves behind. Mary Jo Hall will be profoundly missed by those whom she taught, guided, and loved – a true embodiment of what it means to be a beacon of light in the world. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her, and her lessons of love, faith, and intelligence will resonate for generations to come.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.
Services
Visitation
Saturday
January 24, 2026
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Palmer Funeral Home - River Park
2528 Mishawaka Avenue
South Bend, IN 46615
Funeral Service
Saturday
January 24, 2026
1:00 PM
Palmer Funeral Home - River Park
2528 Mishawaka Avenue
South Bend, IN 46615
Burial at a later date
Ft Custer National Cemetery
15501 Dickman Road
Augusta, Michigan 49012
Donations
Grace College
1 Lancer Way, Winona Lake IN 46590
Web: http://www.grace.edu/give
Added 01/16/2026 1630 GMS
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