Mary Ellen (Jabens) Simnacher, age 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at her home in Vinton.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 PM, Sunday, at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street) in Vinton. At Mary's request, the casket will be closed to the public. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, December 20, 2021 at Evergreen Cemetery in Vinton.

Mary was born, on November 17, 1943 on the family farm near Garrison, the daughter of Hans and Mary (Harrison) Jabens. She graduated from Garrison High School with the class of 1962. On June 12, 1963, She was united in marriage to Wayne Simnacher in Garrison.

Mary worked at Virginia Gay Hospital and later at Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab for over 40 years as the activity director. Following retirement, she used her skills as a seamstress and perfectionist to open riverside Trim All, specializing in upholstery for furniture and automobiles. She enjoyed gardening and landscaping on the couple's acreage, as well as caring for the animals and pets on the property. She also enjoyed day trips in her convertible with friends and going on trips with Wayne in his coupe to see the countryside. Mary served as an "adopted" mother to many of her son's friends while they were growing up.

She is survived by her husband, Wayne; sons, Dwayne Simnacher, and David Simnacher, all of Vinton; and her nephews, Paul Jabens, Dan Jabens, and Kurt Kerkman.

She was preceded in death by her parents; special grandma Mary Inez Harrison; and her sister Ann Marie Kerkman.

Online condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com

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DB December 16, 2021, 6:29 pm Mary was always so nice. My sympathy goes out to all of you.
TS December 17, 2021, 1:00 pm I met Mary working at VGH together...she was so kind and loved working with the residents, families and staff. She made everyone feel special, which always made her extra special. We need more like her.
JaDB December 17, 2021, 2:39 pm Mary was the best activity director at nursing and rehab. She was also dear to our hearts outside of work. She will be missed dearly!
SN December 17, 2021, 4:09 pm Sorry to hear about this, RIP Mary. Spent plenty of time at the house in High School hanging out with Davey, she was awesome.
SJ December 17, 2021, 7:08 pm I've known Mary and her family for many of years. She worked with My Mom at Virgina Gay Hospital and was a beautiful and sweet woman. I send my heartfelt condolences to Wayne, Dwayne, and David as I know she will be greatly missed.
TG December 18, 2021, 9:05 am Thinking of you at your time of loss.
JH December 19, 2021, 10:04 pm I worked with Mary as assistant activity director
At Virginia Gay Hospital Annex
Loved all the activities we did for residents
Mary loved decorating for the holidays
You will be missed Mary. RIP Mary
SO December 20, 2021, 11:17 am Wayne,
Im sorry to hear about Mary. She was a very special lady. Thinking of you