Mary Lou Lowry, 77, Newark Educator and Community Volunteer Dies

Mary Lou Lowry, a long-time Newark resident and educator, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 77, according to hendersonvanatta.com.

Born on March 23, 1949, in Newark, she was the daughter of the late Paul Shannon and Doris (Wiseman) Simon. Her life was deeply rooted in the Licking County community, a connection that spanned her education, her professional service, and her lifelong commitment to local civic engagement.

A 1967 graduate of Licking Valley High School, Mary Lou built a life centered on family and service. She married her husband, John, and together they raised three daughters, a foundation that remained the primary focus of her life.

Mary Lou’s professional life was defined by her presence in local classrooms. She served as a substitute teacher for several area institutions, including Flying Colors, Heath City Schools, and Licking Valley Schools. This work placed her at the heart of the community’s development, working alongside educators to support local students.

Beyond the classroom, her contributions extended to local food security and religious life. She was an active member of Pleasant View Church and dedicated her time as a volunteer at the local food pantry. These roles reflected a broader pattern of civic involvement that characterized her years in Newark.

Her family is her most important legacy. She is survived by her three daughters and their families: Kelly Ann (Mark) Christel, Shelly Ann (Timothy) Clark, and Eve (Todd) Ware. Her influence extends to six grandchildren—Adam (Amanda) Christel, Joseph Christel, John Clark, Josh (Cynthia) Clark, Coleton (Angel) Ware, and Addelynn (Andrew) Holtz—and six great-grandchildren: Isabelle, Nova, Winston, Waylon, Asher, and Annie Lou.

She is also survived by her two brothers, Randy and Michael Simon. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Albert “Dank” Lowry, her brother, Joe Simon, and her sister-in-law and sister-in-law, Debbie Simon and Penny Simon.

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be directed toward causes that were meaningful to her life and the challenges faced by her community. Specifically, they suggest donations to a local law enforcement agency, such as the Licking County Sheriff’s Office or a local police department of choice.

Alternatively, the family encourages support for the Alzheimer’s Association – Central Ohio Chapter in Dublin, Ohio, to assist in the ongoing research and care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The Newark Chapel of Henderson – Van Atta – Stickle Funeral & Cremation Service is managing the arrangements.

A private family service is scheduled to take place at a later date in Barnes Cemetery.

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