Mary Zobrist

Mary Zobrist, age 72 of Greenville, passed away Friday, March 13, 2026, at HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, Illinois.

A Celebration of Mary’s life will be held at the Mt. Nebo Primitive Baptist Church on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the church or Meals on Wheels and that they may be mailed to the Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home, 203 West Oak St, Greenville, IL 62246.

Mary Faye, the daughter of Harry and Helen Ruth (Ridings) Gaffner, was born April 10, 1953, in Greenville, IL. Mary grew up on the Gaffner Farm and graduated from Greenville High School in 1972. She was one of four children; her brother Edward Gaffner survives as well as her sister Martha Smith. Her brother Eldon Gaffner Sr. precedes her in death.

On June 17, 1972, Mary was united in marriage to William Jacob Zobrist at the Mt. Nebo Primitive Baptist Church. Together, they shared 53 years of marriage built on faith, family, and hard work. Mary and Bill had one daughter Kimberly. 

Mary was the true heartbeat of the family farm. She and Bill were an inseparable team, working side-by-side through every season. Whether she was managing the farm’s books, driving equipment, or handing Bill the exact tool he needed for a repair, Mary was fully immersed in the land. She had a deep, personal connection to their herd, knowing every cow by name. For Mary, there was no better scent than the smell of freshly tilled fields in the spring.

Outside of the farm, Mary was known for her generosity. She enjoyed cooking and providing for others. Her desserts were a staple at community gatherings, and her garden was a point of pride. She found great joy in canning vegetables; a craft she took care to pass down to her grandchildren. Her greatest love, however, was her family. She was a devoted mother and grandma who cherished every moment spent teaching, laughing, and growing with her daughter and grandchildren.

Mary is survived by her husband, Bill; her daughter, Kim Duff and husband Luke; and her three beloved grandchildren: Meier, Maisie, and Marlowe.

Tributes can be made to the family online by visiting www.donnellwiegand.com under the tribute tab. Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Obit Provided By:
Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home