Mary Grace Caruthers' Obituary
Mary Grace Caruthers, 89, passed away January 24, 2020. Mary was born to Antonio and Josephine (Cafeo) Geraci on September 26, 1930 in Orlando, Florida.
Mary was married to the love of her life, Aubrey Caruthers, for 68 years. She was a lifelong resident of Sumter County after moving to Wildwood in 1940.
She was very active in providing leadership and support to the organizations, events and citizens of Sumter County. Mary was a charter member of the Sumter County “CowBelles” and was the first President. She held many offices including State Director, State President and State Membership Chair. She was recognized by the Florida “CowBelles” as the State’s Outstanding Cattle Woman. Mary continued to hold memberships in the Sumter County Fair Association (past President), Webster Farmer’s Market, Florida Farm Bureau (past Director) and was an active member of the Oxford Church of Christ. Mary was well known in Sumter County for over 30 years for her catering business. She loved Oxford and was instrumental in fundraising for and the construction of the Oxford Community Building. She provided many hours of service to the Wildwood High School Athletics program. In her early years, she enjoyed working beside Aubrey on their cattle ranch and farm. She even handled the loading of the watermelon crop each season. Mary was well known throughout the county for her commendable, unselfish and willing devotion in promoting Sumter County.
Mary is survived by her husband Aubrey, daughter Cathy Hinckley, sons Michael Caruthers (Carol) and Mark Caruthers (Lorena), Grandchildren Cherae Link (Chuck), Kimberly Hinckley (Ashley), Fredericka Caruthers, Bobby Purvis (Niki) and Brandon Purvis, Great Grandchildren Kaia Bush, Lily Bush, Ryder Link, Taylor Purvis and Bevan Purvis, her brother Rudy Geraci (Jane) and several nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, and son-in-law Dickie Hinckley.
There will be a visitation at Banks/Page-Theus Funeral Home in Wildwood on Tuesday, January 28 from 5:00-7:00 pm with the funeral service there in the chapel Wednesday, January 29 at 10:00 am.
Donations can be made to Christian Home and Bible School, 301 W. 13th Ave; Mt. Dora, FL 32757.
Please dress casual in honor of the family’s wishes.
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