Mary A. (Font) Ankney, age 83, of Defiance, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at The Laurels of Defiance.

She was born in Defiance, Ohio on March 2, 1943 to the late Eli and Geraldine (Willitzer) Font. On June 11, 1960 she married her beloved husband Richard R. Ankney, who preceded her in death on July 8, 2014.

Mary was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Junction. She developed a strong work ethic working as a life-long farmer's wife. She lovingly dedicated her life to her children and her family. Mary was known as "Defiance's Grandma" as she was a babysitter for so many wonderful families in the area over the years. She enjoyed flea markets, casinos, Bingo, and traveling, especially to Northern Michigan. She loved watching the grandkids at their sporting events and activities. Mary will be greatly missed by her family and many good friends.

Mary is survived by her children, Marilyn Steel, Brenda (Bob) Clingaman, Marvin (Deanna) Ankney, Ginny (Tim) Wiseman, Ray (Linda) Ankney, John (Troy) Ankney, and Tim Ankney. She also leaves behind 11 adoring grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, her brother, Larry (Marie) Font, sister-in-law, Mary Johnson, special friend, Gene Yenser, and her furry feline friend "Precious".

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Shirley Cramer and Pam Lewis, infant siblings, Chester Font and Diane Font, son-in-law Ronnie Steel, sister-in-law, Carol Font and brothers-in-law, Tom Plummer and Glen Johnson.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 starting at 4:00 pm at the Ankney Farm. Mary is being laid to rest in Junction Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Fort Defiance Humane Society.