Mary Ellen Valentine, 81, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. Mary Ellen was born on August 16, 1942, to Charles Hall and Vena (Oliver) Hall in Baxter Springs, Kansas. Mary has been a resident of Carthage since 1999 but lived in many different places as a pastor’s wife. She worked at Walmart for over 10 years, and faithfully served with her husband in the ministry for 19 years. She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Carthage and taught Sunday School there as well. Over the years, Mary and her husband and later daughter, Melissa, fostered over 150 children.
Mary was united in marriage to Marvin Valentine on November 23, 1980, in St. Louis, Missouri; he preceded her in death.
She is survived by four sons, Paul Day of St. Louis, John Day of Joplin, Mike Day of South Carolina, and Mark Valentine (Crystal) of Kansas City; and three daughters, Melissa Valentine of Carthage, Madisson Fronce (Shawn) of Joplin, and Melanie Hanks of South Dakota; and many nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband Marvin, parents, and two sisters, Jo Fischer and Charline Heincker.
There will be a service of remembrance for Mary at 10:00 AM on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the First Church of the Nazarene in Carthage, Missouri. Mary’s family will be receiving friends immediately after the service.
Any contributions can be made to Fostering Hope in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
Condolences can be made online at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
