Mary Virginia Weitlauf

Mary Virginia Weitlauf, 74, of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on October 21, 2026. She was born on June 23, 1952, in Paducah, Kentucky, and lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and a deep love for the people and places that shaped her. Her family and friends were the heart of Mary’s world. She cherished each and every one of them. She was deeply loved, truly treasured, and will be forever held in the hearts of those who loved her.

Mary was a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Lexington, Kentucky, where her faith was an important part of her life. She carried herself with grace and warmth, and those who knew her will remember her as a woman of steady character, gentle spirit, and sincere compassion. Her presence brought comfort and encouragement to many, and she was admired for the way she lived her values each day.

Mary devoted much of her professional life to education as a retired teacher from the Meade County School District. She earned her bachelor's and master’s degrees from Murray State University. She believed in the importance of learning and in the lasting influence a teacher can have on the lives of students. Through her years in the classroom, she touched countless young lives with patience, encouragement, and care. Her commitment to education extended beyond her own work, as she was also a member of the National Education Association, reflecting her dedication to her profession and to the broader community of educators.

In addition to her work in education, Mary was active in several organizations that reflected her interests and her generous spirit. She was a member of Daughters of Isabella and served as a past President of Meade County Homemakers. In these roles, she shared her time, leadership, and friendship with others, helping to strengthen the bonds of community and fellowship. She valued service and connection, and she found joy in being involved with groups that brought people together.

Mary also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, and she embraced them wholeheartedly. She loved baking, gardening, and traveling, and these interests brought her happiness throughout the years. Whether she was tending to her garden, preparing something special in the kitchen, or exploring new places, she found delight in the beauty and variety of the world around her. She was also an avid sports fan and a devoted supporter of UK Basketball. GO BIG BLUE! Her enthusiasm for the game was well known, and it added another bright and spirited dimension to her personality.

Mary’s love, friendship, and presence touched the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her sudden passing leaves a profound sadness in the hearts of those who loved her, but the memories she created and the love she gave will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Mary is survived by one sister, Rita Ann Gerteisen (Michael) of Owensboro; three brothers, Charles Henry Weitlauf (Sharon) of Delphi, Indiana, Joseph Raymond Weitlauf (Paula) of Paducah, Michael Anthony Weitlauf (Ann) of Lexington; one sister-in-law, Belinda Weitlauf of Gilbertsville; five nieces: Sarah Weitlauf,  Kristen Vincent (Jared), Hannah Wallace (Quadarius),  Emilie Weitlauf,  Katherine Lancaster (Ryan); 6 nephews, Jea Weitlauf (Renee), John Thomas Weitlauf (Brianna), Phillip Weitlauf, Taylor Weitlauf, Patrick Weitlauf, Christopher Weitlauf (Kelsey); four great-nieces, Opal Weitlauf, Elizabeth Lancaster, Rosa Weitlauf, Abigail Lancaster; 6 great-nephews, Keegan Weitlauf, Wyatt Vincent, Ethan Vincent, David Weitlauf, Bear Wallace and Zeke Wallace.

She was preceded in death by her brother, David Thomas Weitlauf, and her parents, Thomas Edward Weitlauf and Rose Marie Schmitt Weitlauf.

Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church with Father Stephen Than officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to: WHAS Crusade for Children, 520 W. Chestnut St., Louisville, KY 40202; Make-A-Wish Foundation, 1702 E. Highland Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016;  or Kentucky Special Olympics, 105 Lakeview Court, Frankfort, KY 40601.

You may share a memory of Mary or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com .