Mary V. Hettinger, formerly of Rebersburg, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Windy Hill Senior Living in Philipsburg. She was 84. Born April 18, 1942, in Salona, PA, Mary was a daughter of the late Preston K. and Mary V. (Bartley) Renninger. On July 20, 1963, she married Kenneth R. Hettinger who preceded her in death.
Mary is survived by one daughter, Dora Shawley (Thomas) of State College; two sons, Wayne S. Hettinger (Betty) of Trenton, FL and Bruce R. Hettinger (Jacki) of Coburn; nine grandchildren, Henry Woodruff, Sara Hettinger, Emilie Hettinger (Jason Cunrod), Marissa Hettinger, Taylor Hettinger, Joseph Corle (Lee), Benjamin Shawley, Mary V. Tompkins (Robert) and Olivia Van Amburgh.
Also surviving are three great grandchildren, Quinn, Thomas and Peter along with nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. In addition to her husband and parents, Mary was preceded in death by six brothers and her infant daughter, Karen Marie.
Mary was a graduate of the former Bald Eagle Nittany High School, now part of Keystone Area School District. She went on to attain a certificate in Business Administration from Williamsport Area Community College. Mary began her employment at the Pennsylvania Unemployment office in Lock Haven, eventually transferring to the State College office where she retired as a supervisor. After she retired in 1985, she enjoyed helping Kenneth with the chores on their farm.
Mary was a member of the former Madisonburg United Methodist Church now Brush Valley New Life Church where she played the piano for many years and served on the Loyal Workers ladies’ group of the church. She enjoyed watching the birds and collecting bird houses. She also enjoyed cooking, baking and canning. In fact, some of her strawberry and peach jam has travelled worldwide, including to some soldiers in the Middle East.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Brush Valley New Life Church from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with lay pastor Sue Long officiating. Mary will be laid to rest in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Mill Hall. Contributions in her memory may be given to Brush Valley New Life Church, POB 4, Madisonburg, PA 16852.