Mary H. Ankrum

Mary H. Ankrum, age 104, of Willow Street, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at The Glen at Willow Valley. She was the loving wife of Robert S. Ankrum for 59 years before his passing in 2002. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late James and Annie Jackson Herr. Mary was a member of Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church for 79 years where her love for music enabled her to serve in many ways within the music ministry, including being the organist for over 30 years. Remarkably, as a 20-year-old woman in 1942, Mary graduated from Lebanon Valley College with a degree in music. Her career as an elementary school music teacher lasted 27 years, primarily within the Solanco School District. Always a talented and productive woman, Mary's domestic abilities were equally impressive; she excelled at sewing, knitting, pie-crust making, and vegetable gardening. Her love for people, however, was her most defining trait. Living in the same community for a lifetime, she enjoyed many long-term friendships and family relationships. Mary raised two incredible children: Barbara (wife of Bob Miller of Drumore), and James (husband of Paula Ankrum of Browns Point, WA) and was the adored MomMom of four grandchildren. She was a loving presence in the lives of her 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her 3 sisters, Esther Wiley, Gertrude Aument and Sara Wilson.

A funeral service will take place at Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church, (1068 Chestnut Level Road, Quarryville) on Saturday, February 7, at 11 AM, with a time to greet the family beginning at 10 AM.  Pastor John Hartman will officiate. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church, Worship & Music Fund (1068 Chestnut Level Road, Quarryville, PA 17566). The family is deeply grateful to the third-floor staff at The Glen for the loving care and genuine kindness they showed us.