Maryfrances "Mike" Jennings
September 18, 1925 ~ March 9, 2020
Maryfrances “Mike” Wendling Jennings was born September 18, 1925, in Indianapolis to the late Louis and Beatrice (Schludecker) Wendling. Mike was residing at St. Paul Hermitage in Beech Grove when she passed peacefully to be with the Lord on March 9th, 2020, at the golden age of 94.
Mike was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Mark Catholic Church her entire adult life. She donated her time and talents to the church in whatever capacity was needed. She and her husband, George, were awarded the Spirit of Service Award from the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. Mike graduated from Marian University with a Home Economics Degree, which she used daily while raising twelve children. Mike was a member of St. Mark’s Bowling League and managed several Speedway Gas Stations.
Mike spent her life in the service of others. She was married to George E. Jennings for nearly 70 years. She was preceded in death by George and a brother, LJ Wendling. She leaves behind a brother, Don Wendling and twelve children, Bill (Marie Hilda), Anne (Phil) Breedlove, Sue Hillman, Tom (Mary Lynn), Joan (John) Sanew, Joyce (Bob) Myles, Holly Jennings, Ginny (Chuck) Taylor, Terri (Rick) Utterback, George (Tammy), Paul (Jane), and John (Amy). Mike was blessed additionally with 31 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren. She was an avid card player, Chinese checkers player, Dominoes and loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved life and was a very strong individual. She spent many years camping with any number of kids during the week while George minded the store.
In celebration of a life filled with love, please join the family of Mike Jennings for visitation on Sunday, March 15, 2020, 2 to 5 p.m., at the O’Riley Funeral Home, 6107 S. East St., Indianapolis. Recitation of the rosary will be at 4:30 p.m. Prayers will be said at 9:30 a.m., Monday, March 16, 2020, at the funeral home, with the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m., in St. Mark Catholic Church. Entombment will be at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Hermitage. Visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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Grandma was always consistent with her love for me. I have many fond memories of her dry humor and spending my childhood in the Jennings home. She was always very practical. I remember being at the lake house and forgetting my belt. She wrapped a piece of rope around my waist and put me in the car for church. I felt embarrassed but she said God doesn’t care about your fashion. It also always seemed to me about people gathering for food and taking home leftovers. No one went home hungry. I am proud to carry those traditions forward in my own life by constantly feeding friends, family, and those in need. I wish circumstances had allowed me to have an adult relationship with her, but I am lightened by the memories of her always.
I used to deliver mail to the Jenning’s residence and got to know them pretty well. Mike was a wonderful, giving individual. She always had a smile and kind words for me. I know a couple of her family members and they are a testament to this fine lady. Prayers and condolences to the family.
My deepest condolence to all of the Jennings’ kids: Your Mother (and your Father) were a wonderful part of my life. How blest you all were to have had parents as incredible, loving and giving as yours. May our loving God be with each of you as you take one step at a time into your lives without her. You are all so blest. Hugs and prayers, Marianne Schafer Ries.
Lit a candle in memory of Maryfrances “Mike” Jennings
Kevin Morgan When I was a young boy in the 1960’s, my grandfather would send me up to Jennings Grocery Store on Clifton Street. I would see George, his children and his dad cutting meat. I am very sorry for your loss !