Mary Elizabeth Stoetzer

It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we celebrate the life of Mary Elizabeth Stoetzer, who passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at her home at Best Care Assisted Living in Punta Gorda, Florida. Born on December 26, 1929, in Bridgeport, Ohio, Mary was the beloved daughter of Mary Elizabeth Beabout Baxter and Clarence Baxter. She is now reunited with her parents and her siblings, Samuel, Edward, George, Vivian, and Alberta, as well as her cherished husband, Charles Stoetzer. Mary's life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and devotion. She was a proud alumna of Bridgeport High School, class of 1947, and continued her education at Wheeling Business School. Her career as an interior decorator allowed her to bring beauty and warmth to the homes of many, both in West Virginia and Florida. Mary's eye for design was matched only by her love for the beach and her passion for reading, a joy she eagerly shared with her daughters. Mary's legacy lives on through her devoted daughters, Paula McCormick Johnson (Ed) and Joni McCormick Moomau (Ben). She was the treasured grandmother of Thomas Moomau (Stephanie), Lura Moomau (JP Guterl), and Sarah Moomau, and the proud great-grandmother of Allida Lee Moomau and Eleanor Beckner Moomau. Her family was her greatest pride, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She also leaves behind her dear nieces, Patty Baxter, Vivian, and Catherine Mary, as well as a close family friend, Roni, whose friendship she held dear. Mary's warmth extended beyond her family, as she was an active member of the Pilot Club in Wheeling, where she formed lasting friendships and shared her business acumen. Her culinary skills were legendary, particularly during Thanksgiving, her favorite holiday, where her meals became the cornerstone of family gatherings. In addition to her professional and personal achievements, Mary was published in Reminisce magazine, a testament to her gift with words and her appreciation for life's beautiful moments. Her writing captured the essence of her spirit—gentle, insightful, and full of grace. While Mary's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, her spirit and love will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. A private ceremony will be held to honor her life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Mary's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to making the world a better place. Mary Elizabeth Stoetzer will be remembered with love and admiration, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched. May she rest in peace, forever cherished and never forgotten.