Mary Gay Bacon

Mary Gay Bacon, 91, of Kingsport, Tennessee, and formerly of Manchester, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Born on May 18, 1935, in Ashland, Wisconsin, Mary was the daughter of the late Leon and Doris (Taylor) Hornkohl. Although her family lived in several places throughout her childhood, she was primarily raised in Rolla, Missouri, where she graduated from high school. She continued her education at Drury University, earning her bachelor's degree, and later received her master's degree from Middle Tennessee State University.

Mary devoted her career to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher, primarily teaching first grade. Her passion for education and nurturing children spanned more than three decades, from the 1950s through the 1980s, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and their families.

In 1958, Mary married Archie Kiser. Throughout his career, the family lived in several locations across the country before settling in Tullahoma, Tennessee, in 1977. They shared 23 years of marriage before Archie's passing in 1981. In Manchester, Mary found love again and married Will Bacon in 1986. They enjoyed 30 wonderful years together until his passing in 2016.

Mary was deeply committed to her community and the causes she believed in. She was active with the League of Women Voters, a member of Presbyterian Women, and remained a lifelong Democrat. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was a devoted longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Manchester.

In addition to her parents and both husbands, Mary was preceded in death by her brothers, Marc Hornkohl, Owen Hornkohl, and James Hornkohl.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, James Kiser (Juanice), Jonathan Kiser (Gina), and Patrick Kiser (Kathy); grandchildren, Jessie, Matthew, Holly, Claire, and Sophia; two great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to others.

Service details are pending and will be announced as they become available.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, Tennessee, is honored to serve the Bacon family. (423) 282-1521