Mishawaka honors and remembers Mary Lou Wood, a remarkable woman, a proud Mishawaka citizen

Today, many in Mishawaka came together to honor and remember Mary Lou Wood, a remarkable woman, a proud Mishawaka, citizen leader who not just made a difference in her community, she made Mishawaka a better place and also touched so many lives. For 95 years, she lived with grace, strength, and an infectious spirit that made everyone around her feel special. She often called life’s challenges “hiccups,” a simple word that reflected her incredible ability to handle adversity with calm and poise.

Mary Lou was not just Marvin Wood’s wife, she was his partner, his teammate in life. Marvin, as we know, was a man of great accomplishments, from his legendary coaching of the Milan Miracle, 1954 Milan State Basketball Championship, to his dedication as a Mishawaka City Councilman and his years of service as a coach, teacher, and counselor. But behind every great man is often an even greater woman, and Mary Lou was that, and so much more. She wasn’t someone content to stand in the shadows. She had a light that shone brightly in her own right.

Mary Lou was an active and cherished leader in our community and in her beloved First United Methodist Church. Her heart was full of love for Mishawaka, and she poured herself into serving others, giving of her time and energy wherever it was needed. She made people better lifting them up, encouraging them, and showing them what true kindness and grace look like.  Words that she was well known for is a resounding refrain for her life’ “It is nice to be important, but it is more important to be nice.”

For me personally, Mary Lou and Marvin were like family. I had the privilege of stepping into Marvin’s shoes on the City Council after he passed away, but it was Mary Lou who kept inspiring me. Her quiet strength and boundless encouragement were always there, reminding me to keep striving to be better, to serve our community with the same heart she had.

Mary Lou’s legacy is one of love, service, and unwavering commitment to her family, her community, and her faith. She lived a life well lived, and we are all the better for having known her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will remain with us forever.