Mary L. Sword

Mary Lou Sword, age 79, passed peacefully on Monday, September 15, 2025, into the arms of God.

Mary Lou was named after her parents, Mary & Louie. Family could call her Mary Lou, but preferred to be called Mary.

Preceded in death by her parents, Louie & Mary, and sister Judy, survived by her loving daughter Lisa, brother Louie Jr., and sister and husband Vickie and Gary. She was blessed with many nieces, nephews, and relatives.

Mary graduated from Grandview High School in 1964. She attended different night schools, always trying to educate herself. Curious about everything in the world. Always gaining knowledge and fascinated by technology,

Mary loved Jesus, her family, everyone, and everything. She loved music, listening to bands, and dancing. She loved talking, especially to animals. Believe it or not, some responded to her. Mary was such a beautiful person, both inside and out, with a big heart. She was very strong-willed, stubborn, and always had an answer, regardless of the situation on a topic.

Everyone who met her knew she was very unique. Because of her different perspective on life, she related to everyone. She had so much energy and always encouraged others to reach for the stars. She made you feel appreciated and loved. She understood the many trials life brought. Mary saw the value of praying for herself and others. Always ready to lend advice so you can live life to the fullest. If you had questions about your body, Doctor Mary did health research, and well, she had the answers.

Mary modeled clothes for the Trendsetter department at the Lazarus department store. Ok, you young kids – it’s now Macy’s. She was a born salesperson and enjoyed selling skin care and perfume products at Madisons. She won a Marlo Thomas look-alike contest and also reigned as the “Queen of the City of Bexley” in the 70’s.

At Honeywell, Mary worked assembling electronics. She enjoyed being a server/waitress at high-end dinner clubs. From her restaurant experience, she was so conscientious when leaving a tip. You did not leave a tip on the table. You handed it to the waitress and thanked them. Before retiring, Mary worked in a skilled nursing facility for about 16 years. At the end of each shift, she would stay until residents had everything they needed.

As the adventurer, she ventured to many cities and lived in New York, New Jersey, Chicago, Florida, and Oklahoma. She loved traveling and exploring what the world had to offer.

We were fortunate in 2008; Mary returned home to Ohio when our family needed help caring for our parents. After our Father passed, she remained living with our mother until she passed. They were blessed to have time together and took care of each other.

As outgoing as Mary was, as she grew older, she wanted to know all about your life, but tended to be private about her life, never wanting you to worry about her.

As her health began failing, she did not want many to know. She continued to be strong in her faith, kind, and in her sweet stubbornness - determined to get back to her healthy body. So, she could live to be 125 years old. Up until the day she passed, she woke up in the middle of the night, making sure she completed all exercise repetitions for that day. She also made it her job to inform you of the weather, current events, and all the news for the day.

Mary loved celebrating, making sure everything was decorated, color coordinated, regardless of where the celebration was. If you were fortunate enough to receive a card from her, oh my goodness, they were a piece of art. Mary would add scripture, a note, or her special touches. God Blessed Mary with many gifts that she shared with others.

Mary would want us to remember her smile, laughter, and her sweet way she reached for your hand, then pressed her fingers to her lips, blew you a kiss, to say “Thank You and “I Love You!” Our beautiful Mary had a way of capturing our hearts.

For the last few weeks, she wanted to learn to speak Italian. Mary was very proud of her heritage. So, from Mary to all of you - “Ti Amo – “Ci vediamo in Paradiso!” (I love you, see you in paradise)

Please keep praying for Mary because we know she is praying for all of us.

A special thanks to Melissa Berger and all her staff at Johnstown Pointe Nursing/Rehab facility, Mary’s home since last November. We were so fortunate to find such amazing, compassionate, skilled nursing staff showing Mary so much love. They touched not only Mary’s heart but also became part of our family. We also thank Bella Care Hospice for their heartfelt guidance. They became a part of Mary’s care team a few days before she passed. If you wish to make a contribution in her memory, please consider Johnstown Pointe or Bella Care Hospice.

God’s Blessings to you and your families!

Please join us on Friday, September 26th, at Newcomer Funeral Home to celebrate Mary’s Life - Visitation 4 – 5 pm, Service at 5 – 5:30 pm. At a later date, a Private Inurnment Service will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery.