Mary Virginia Earp

A letter from Mary to her family and friends written on April 18, 2026, along with her obituary that she wrote as well.  

Instead of saying what I did or didn't do in my 92 years; I want to say to my family and friends my life has been full of love, joy, and peace from my family. God has been good to me. Wonderful children, grandchildren, and wonderful great-grandchildren. I was blessed. I say to family and friends always love to your last breath.

Don't leave Jesus Christ out of your life. Without Jesus Christ you really have nothing. He is the only one that can take your hand and go all the way with you. Thank Jesus Christ every day for what he did for you and what he can do and will do for you.

My Prayers are with you, Love Mother and Friend

Obituary

Mary Virginia Earp, age 92 was born February 16, 1934 to Clyde Skelton and Opal Bagby Skelton at Arbyrd, Missouri. She passed away on August 19, 2026 in her home in Roby, Missouri.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Laverne Greathouse; brothers, Glen Ray Skelton and R.B. Skelton and stepson, Jerry Earp. Surviving are sisters, Nell Benefield and Carolyn Collins.

She met and married her husband Eugene Earp July 3, 1973. She is also survived by: Children, Melissa Emerick, Virginia Burcham, Trula Ek, Michael Earp, Carolyn Rumsey, and Bruce Earp, as well as wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren that brought much love and joy to her. Mary also had two girls she considered adopted daughters Shirley Bettes Terracina and Jane Baughman and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved. She was a member of the Plato Christian Church for many years.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s honor may be made to Palace Cemetery.