Mary Gay Bacon

Mary Gay Bacon, 91, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, kindness, and quiet strength. Though our hearts are broken, we are comforted by the many lives she touched and the memories she leaves with those who loved her. 

Mary was born in Ashland, Wisconsin on May 18, 1935. She attended Drury College in Springfield, Missouri, where she furthered her education and developed a lifelong love of learning, and received her Masters in Education at Middle Tennessee State University. 

A devoted Christian, Mary's faith was the foundation of her life. She was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee, where she loved her church family and found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving others. Earlier in her life, she faithfully taught at St. Paul's Apostolic Church, sharing God's Word with compassion and dedication and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those she taught. 

Mary believed in serving her community and was a proud member of the League of Women Voters, where she encouraged civic engagement and thoughtful participation in public life.

She had a remarkable gift for making things grow. An exceptional gardener, Mary found joy and peace in tending flowers and plants, creating beauty wherever she lived. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, expressing her love for family through the meals she prepared over the years. 

One of Mary's greatest joys was traveling with her beloved husband, Will. Together they shared many wonderful adventures, especially their trips to the islands, creating memories that reflected their deep love for one another and their appreciation for life's simple pleasures. 

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Will Bacon; her parents, Leon and Helen Hornkohl; and her brothers, Marc Hornkohl, Owen Hornkohl, and Jim Hornkohl.

She is survived by her three sons, James (Juanice) Kiser, Jon (Gina) Kiser, and Patrick (Kathy) Kiser; her cherished grandchildren, Jessica (Brad) Hill, Matt Kiser, Holly Kiser, Claire Kiser, and Sophia Kiser; her treasured great-grandchildren, Cason Hill, Pippa Hill, and Winnie Hill; and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. 

Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 - 2:00 pm on Sunday, July 19 at First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee, followed by a celebration of Mary's life at 2:00.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Tennessee. 

Mary's life was a beautiful testament to faith, family, and love. She was the heart of her family, and the love she planted in each of them will continue to grow for generations. Her kindness, grace, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will never be forgotten.

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