Mary Tarver

June 27, 1932, the world was blessed when Mary M. Tarver (née Smith) was born in Croweburg, Kansas, to her loving parents, Robert and Mary M. Smith (née Robinson). She was one of eight children.

Her early childhood was spent in Pittsburg, Kansas, before settling in Baptist Church.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
— Isaiah 41:10

She eventually met and married John C. Tarver in 1956, and later settled in Chicago, IL. From this union, she welcomed Kim Tarver and Curtis Tarver, later joined by Patrick Tarver.

Living in Chicago, Mary worked numerous meaningful jobs — at schools, hospitals, and multiple restaurants — sharing her love of cooking with the community.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day..."
— 2 Timothy 4:7–8

Mary was the life of the party — always playing solitaire or stepping to some good music when she could. She often made funny jokes, because that’s who she was: a woman who could make anybody smile.

She was also very selfless, helping anyone in need — because she never knew a stranger.

"For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even to the end."
— Psalm 48:14

She also cherished Eddie Woods and Eddie Miles as her own, often calling them her son-in-law and grandson. She loved them dearly, always making them Sunday dinner plates to-go.

Mary loved old Western TV shows, often watching John Wayne and Clint Eastwood films. She also loved sports — her Chicago teams (Bears, Bulls, and Sox) — and classic tennis matches featuring Arthur Ashe and Billie Jean King.

"And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them."
— 1 John 4:16

But her ultimate joy was her great-grandchildren, Sydney and Tyler. She made sure they had everything they needed, being involved from the very start — taking them downtown, to the park, attending dance recitals and graduations. She was a very devoted great-grandparent.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."
— 1 Corinthians 13:13

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mary Smith; her daughter, Kim Tarver; grandchild, Kommodor Tarver; and siblings Robert, Donald, Ronald, Vivian, Selestine, Annie, and Lavonia. She was the last of her siblings.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory: her sons, Patrick and Curtis Tarver; grandchild, Samaria Tarver-Woods; great-grandchildren, Kwamaine Tarver, Tyler Byers, and Sydney Cason; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

She often said, "If the Lord takes a liking to me, then it’s my time." We were so blessed by God to have called her Mom, Granny, Aunt, Sisaw, Girl, and many more nicknames.

She will be truly missed.

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