Mary Campbell Obituary

Mary Alice Campbell, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Mary grew up in a family devoted to education and service. Her father was a coach and school superintendent, and her mother taught English and French—values that shaped Mary’s lifelong love of learning.

Mary spent her early years in Carlisle and New Sharon, Iowa, graduating from New Sharon High School before earning her degree from the University of Iowa in 1950. That same year she married her high school sweetheart, Gerald Campbell, who later served in Korea. Together they built a life centered on family, education, and adventure.

Mary taught high school in Mt. Vernon, Iowa, while raising her two children, Jeffrey and Diane. The family later moved to Colorado, where Jeff and Diane spent their youth riding and showing horses. After Gerald’s passing in 1972, Mary continued her teaching career at Central High School.

A woman of deep faith, Mary was active at Faith Presbyterian Church, participating in women’s circles, sewing groups, and serving as a deacon. For 35 years she volunteered at the Interchurch Task Force, offering food and clothing to those in need.

Mary loved playing bridge, reading, and traveling. Her journeys took her across Europe, the Great Wall of China, Petra, the Holy Land, the Nile River, Egypt, the Panama Canal, Hawaii, and Alaska. She embraced lifelong learning, taking Spanish and computer classes well into her senior years.

Mary cherished her family above all. She is survived by her daughter, Diane, and son in law Kendal; grandchildren Jessica (Dylan) and Alex (Rebecca); and great grandchildren Brayden, Danielle, and Lochlan. She was preceded in death by her husband Gerald, her son Jeff, and her brother Harlan.

Mary’s many school friends, church friends, work friends and the special people at SpringBrooke Retirement home made her life most interesting

Mary believed deeply in the goodness of people and the importance of moral leadership. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and unwavering love.