Mary Barron

ORAN, Mo. -- Mary Barron was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Feb. 20, 1946, to the late John and Margery Kremenak Secl. She passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at her home in Oran at the age of 74, with her patient and loving husband of 44 years, Joseph Barron, and her daughter, Anna Barron, by her side.

She was a 1964 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School. After graduation, she went to University of Northern Iowa to earn her bachelor's degree in 1969 and her master's degree in 1975, both in education. Upon graduation, she started her career as an educator in Winthrop, Iowa. Her tenure as an educator and guidance counselor spanned more than 25 years and three states. She impacted countless students and colleagues with her encouragement and kindness.

Mary also had a heart for Jesus and her family. She was a member of United Methodist Church in Urbana, Iowa, before becoming a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Oran. Her favorite pasttimes were singing hymns, reading books, watching mystery shows and playing school with her granddaughter, Ali. She also loved spending time with her family and spoke about her children and grandchildren often.

Mary was united in marriage to Joseph Barron on Dec. 20, 1975, in Winthrop. They were blessed with three children, Benjamin (Danielle) Barron, Genevieve (Sergio) Mendoza and Anna Barron.

She is survived by her husband, children and grandchildren, Sergio Mendoza, Adrian Mendoza, Xavier Mendoza, Jonathan Mendoza, Alexandria King and Victoria Barron. She also leaves behind her brother-in-law, William Barron; sister-in-law, Gloria Secl; niece, Janelle (Cory) Newman; and nephews, Steve (Kim) Barron and Matthew (Johanna) Secl.

She was preceded in death by her brother, John Secl of Cedar Rapids, and her parents, John and Margery Secl.

She was loved by many and will be missed deeply by those who she touched this side of heaven.

A celebration of life service will be planned for a later date.

Online condolences may be shared at www.amick-burnettfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel of Oran.