Mary Winnifred Ballinger

Mary W. (McQuistan) Ballinger, 75, of Waverly, NE, formerly of Pender, NE, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Mulberry Care Center in Waverly, NE. A Celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Pender Community Center in Pender, NE. Burial will be at a later date at the Rosehill Cemetery in Pender, NE. The services are under the direction of Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home in Pender. 

Mary was born on July 23, 1949, in Pender, NE, the daughter of Edward C. and Alice (Geraldine) McQuistan. Following her graduation from Pender High School in 1967, Mary was united to Larry Ballinger, Sr. on August 26, 1967, at the Methodist Church in Pender. Together they shared 57 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, and memories.

Mary was well-known for her many talents. Her baking was nothing short of legendary, especially her wedding cakes, which became a cherished part of so many special celebrations. Her creativity extended to her beautiful wood crafts, which she crafted with love for all to enjoy. But above all, Mary’s heart belonged to her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Whether it was a sports game, recital, or any milestone, you could always find her cheering on her children and grandchildren, no matter how far she had to travel. 

Mary leaves behind her loving husband, Larry, Sr.; children, Larry (Kelly) Ballinger, Jr. of Pender, NE, Scott (Kathy) Ballinger of Waverly, NE, and Beth (Tom) Siegmann of Windermere, FL; grandchildren, Paige Hegge, Hallie Macholan, Daniel Siegmann, Jarrett Ballinger, Parker Ballinger, Zachary Siegmann, Camden Ballinger, and a great-granddaughter, Tatum Hegge. She is also survived by her sisters, Maureen (Bill) Wenke of Pender, NE, and Arel Gies of Muskogee, OK.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a daughter Michele Ballinger.

Mary’s legacy of love, strength, and creativity will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.