Mary Alethea Baird Brindle, 89, of Frederick County, Virginia, died April 10, 2015, in the Blue Ridge Hospice.

         She was born on January 3, 1926, in Altoona, PA, the daughter of late Charles and Freda Smyers Baird. Mary graduated from Altoona High School, class of 1943. She was awarded a Bachelor’s degree in education from Shippensburg University, class of 1947. She was a proud member of the Fort Loudoun Chapter, NSDAR and the First Presbyterian Church of Winchester.  A teacher, homemaker, professional artist and ardent searcher of her ancestry.

         She married Ernest Wright Brindle, Jr. on December 21, 1947, in Altoona, PA.

         Surviving along with her husband of 67 years is Mary’s son, Dr. Jeffrey Brindle (Sherri) of Watertown, SD and daughter, Dr. Wendy Brindle of Winchester, VA. Four grandchildren, Sarah and Hannah Brindle of Watertown, SD; David Brindle (Brittany), of Columbia Heights, MN; and

Rachel Kuseske (Zachary) of Plymouth, MN. She will be greatly missed by her nieces and nephews.

         Mary was the rock of the family. She allowed her husband and children to reach for the stars without being afraid. They knew she was always there to catch them in her unconditional love. She was very devoted to her friends and caregivers, Jennifer and Jessie.

         She was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Baumgardner.

         In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mary to the Fort Loudoun Chapter, NSDAR, in care of Susan Wilt, Treasurer, 112 April Avenue, Stephens City, VA 22655 and The Blue Ridge Hospice.

         Memorial service will be held on April 21, at 3:00 PM in the Boyd’s Chapel at the First Presbyterian Church of Winchester.