Mary Waller

Mary Jane Waller, known affectionately as Mary to her friends and family, passed away peacefully at her residence in Cookeville, TN, on August 27, 2024. Born on March 16, 1950, in the same town she would call home throughout her life, Mary's 74 years were marked by an unwavering dedication to her family and friends.

Mary's early life in Cookeville was filled with the laughter and camaraderie of a large and loving family. She was one of seven children born to Haskell Wheeler and Sadie Bryant Wheeler, both of whom she is preceded in death by, along with her beloved husband, Jerry Waller, and her siblings, Gene Wheeler (and his wife, Juanita) and Dorothy Harris (and her husband, Ed), as well as her brother-in-laws, Pope Allen, Bud Waller, and Grover Upchurch and sister-in-law, Geraldine Billingsley.

Mary's professional journey was characterized by resilience and adaptability. She spent many years at ACME Boot, moving on to TRW, and finally Cummins Filtration, where she worked until her well-deserved retirement in 2021. Mary was known for her strong work ethic and friendly demeanor among colleagues.

Generosity and love defined Mary's personal life. She was a selfless individual who always put others before herself. She expressed her love to family and friends through the meals she lovingly prepared. Her grandchildren, Tyler Cronk (and his wife, Paige), Brett Cronk, and Hailey Cronk, were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Mary's legacy of love and care lives on through her surviving family members. Her daughter, Lisa Cronk (and her husband, Kevin), her siblings, Edith Upchurch, Reba Allen, Dewey Wheeler (and his wife, Juanita), and Billy Wheeler (and his wife, Pam), as well as several nieces and nephews, will forever hold memories of Mary's generous spirit close to their hearts.

Those who knew Mary would describe her as a loving and generous soul, always ready to serve and uplift others. Her presence was a comfort and her actions a testament to a life well-lived in the service of her family and community.

The family will receive friends and loved ones for visitation at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral. A service honoring Mary's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, August 30, at the funeral home. Following the service, Mary will be laid to rest at Smellage Memory Gardens.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Kevin, Tyler and Brett Cronk, Mike Steakley, Dale Harris and Wayne Brown.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.