Mary I. Dazey, 86, of Tiffin, passed away peacefully on Friday afternoon, November 28, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

Born on May 17, 1939, in Berwick, OH, to Floyd and Helen (Williams) Ludwig, Mary lived a life defined by service, kindness, and devotion. On April 19, 1966, she married James E. Dazey, who preceded her in death. Though she experienced loss throughout her life, Mary's heart remained open, steady, and giving.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her: her son, Floyd "Bill" Shetterly of Tiffin; daughters Jennifer (Mark) Sanders of Tiffin and DawnMarie Dazey (Peter) McLea of Bradenton, FL; her sister, Geneva Ludwig of Tiffin; and her beloved grandson, Thomas Elchert.

She is reunited in Heaven with her parents; her brothers, George, Raymond, and Michael Ludwig; and her sister, Caroline "Peggy" Hepp.

A 1957 graduate of McCutchenville High School, Mary dedicated more than five decades to serving others through her work in food service at S. S. Kresge's and Heidelberg University. Her true ministry, however, was lived out through her faith and her volunteer work. As a devoted member of First Christian Church, Mary prepared and organized countless meals, making everyone who walked through the doors feel welcomed and cared for.

Her giving spirit extended far beyond the church. Mary volunteered with the Tiffin Lion's Club, the Red Cross, United Way, and St. Paul's Ecumenical Sharing Kitchen, where she devoted years of loving service. She was recognized as Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and even served as a Grand Marshal for a Tiffin Christmas parade — honors that reflected her compassion, humility, and lifelong dedication to her community.

Mary's personal motto was, "It's my turn to give back to the community, because the community kept me employed all these years." And she lived that motto with every smile, every greeting, and every act of kindness. She gave you a sparkle, a wink, a wave — and somehow made you feel like the most important person in the room. She never met a stranger; only friends she hadn't gotten to know yet. Her heart was wide open, and she helped others not because it was easy, but because she believed it was simply what she was meant to do.

She was strong in every sense of the word. Life handed her challenges, and she met each one with determination, humor, and grace. She was the steady copilot to her siblings, the "best" to her friends, and the center of her family. Inside jokes were her love language — she could make you laugh until your sides hurt, and those memories will echo forever in the hearts she touched.

Her final moments came gently, dressed in her favorite top, wrapped in peace. Even then, she taught us something about grace. Though we prayed for another ten years, God called her home. We believe she was welcomed by her parents, siblings, family, friends, and all those who went before her. We picture her smiling, sparkling, winking, and waving — just the way she always did.

Mary's greatest joy was her family, and her greatest gift was the warmth she shared with everyone she met. She will be remembered for her hardworking hands, her gentle heart, and her unwavering desire to serve. She was a strong woman. A giver. A friend to all. And she is loved beyond words.

Her funeral will be held Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First Christian Church, with Reverend Douglas DeVos officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmont Cemetery. Friends may gather to share memories on Thursday, December 4, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., and again on Friday from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at the church, located at 2016 S. CR. 19 in Tiffin.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church, the Tiffin Lion's Club, or Heartland Hospice.

Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com