Mary Bernice (Wethy) Lea

Mary Bernice (Wethy) Lea was born November 30, 1949, in Pontiac, Michigan to Harold and Mary (Bishop) Wethy. She grew up in Salem, Missouri and graduated with the class of 1966 from Salem High School. Mary was united in marriage to John Hopper and to this union blessed with two sons: John and Brian. She later married her sweetheart, Kenneth Lea, and to this union blessed with one daughter: Jennifer. Mary prided herself on being a hard worker, holding a variety of jobs during her lifetime. She spent many years working as a custodian at UMR, a nurse aide at the nursing home, as well as several years at Northwood Elementary School. Mary was a collector of many things and loved to garden. She liked playing games on her tablet and enjoyed putting together puzzles. Making memories with her family was most important to her. She cherished her grandchildren and treasured her great-grandchildren. Mary was a lady of great faith and member of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Mary entered eternal rest on May 4, 2023, in Salem, Missouri at the age of seventy-three years. Those left to cherish her memory are her loving children: Brian Hopper and wife Loretta of Salem, MO and Jennifer Reichenbaugh and husband Bryce of Salem, MO; siblings: Kathy Schivitz of Salem, MO, Jerry Wethy and wife Darlene of Salem, MO, and Irene Copeland of Jefferson City, MO; grandchildren: Alex, Summer, Silas, K.J., and Kyle; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death, husband: Kenneth Lea; son: John Hopper; parents: Harold and Mary Wethy; and brothers: Jim, Vincent, Eddie, Jonas, Walter, and Larry. Mary will be remembered for the love she had for her family and friends. She leaves behind many lasting memories for them to hold on to. She will be forever missed. Funeral Services for Mary Bernice (Wethy) Lea were held Wednesday, May 10, 2023, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Mark Johnson officiating. Song selections played were “Amazing Grace” and “Go Rest High on that Mountain”. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Mary Bernice (Wethy) Lea

November 30, 1949 - May 4, 2023