Mary Elizabeth Willoughby
April 24, 1964 ~ September 21, 2025
Mary Elizabeth Willoughby, aged 61, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, in Westfield, Indiana. Born on April 23, 1964, in Columbus, Indiana the daughter of John R. and Irma F. Galyen. Mary was a vibrant soul whose laughter and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Her love-hate relationship with the family's pink flamingo, Sheila, became a running joke that brought laughter to family. There is no doubt this will still be mentioned in fond memories for years to come.
As she grew older, Mary's adventurous spirit found a home in the world of bingo and gambling. Her ability to light up a room was as much a part of her as her unwavering presence. Mary's love for games extended into her home life, where she cherished playing Yahtzee with her granddaughters. The stakes were never higher than when an entire bag of Peanut Butter M&Ms was on the line, and these moments became treasured memories for her family.
Mary's life was devoted to her family. A stay-at-home mom for many years, Mary was always there for her family.
A true connoisseur of classic entertainment, Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of old TV shows, with M*A*S*H, holding a special place in her heart. Her favorite movie, Sinbad, was a testament to her love for stories of adventure and the fantastical, a love she passed down to her daughter and grandchildren.
Mary's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the courage to embrace life's gambles. She had poor health for many years, yet, cheated the grave and captured more time to love life. She was a beacon of light to her family, a devoted friend, and a cherished member of her community. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the memories she created will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to know her.
A time of gathering will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at Jewell Rittman Funeral Home and Cremation Center.
Mary is survived by her daughter; Dawn Nicole (Cammeron) Fountain; granddaughters, Calli Fountain and Cammi Fountain; sisters, Becky (Steve) Galyen, and Teresa (Tim) Smith; Nieces, Jessica Rae, Ashley Everman, Mandi Collins, and Angie Cabana.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorial donations may be made to the Fisher’s High School Theatre Department through the funeral home.






Ed & Cathy Galyen purchased the Peaceful White Lilies Basket for the family of Mary Elizabeth Willoughby.
An external video has been added.
Miss Mary was my Dearest friend for the last 40 years. I did my best to take care of her these last 4 years, had a hard time keeping up with her, and couldn’t take her to Walmart and the casino every time she asked me to. All summer I promised I would take her to Shelbyville in Sept. She kept telling me that was too long and evidently she got tired of waiting on me. Sorry Miss Mary. Though she sometimes aggravated the pee water out of me, I love her dearly and will NEVER forget her. She is in my heart, till we meet again. I Love You Miss Mary
Mary had a heart of gold. She was always among the first to check on her neighbors, always happy to help someone whether she knew them or not. I miss her smile and her kind spirit. Heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
Jason and Julie Bolles purchased the Arrive in Style for the family of Mary Elizabeth Willoughby.
Jason and Julie Bolles planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Mary Elizabeth Willoughby.
Waterline Church purchased the Florist Choice Bouquet for the family of Mary Elizabeth Willoughby.
The Celebration of Liife for Miss Mary was beautiful. No doubt she is in the arms of her Lord and Savior along side all her loved ones, she was very faithful and always told me “I walk by Faith not by sight” my heart is with her family and friends and I pray the pain of her loss will heal quickly. Love and Hugs