MaryBeth Allender

- Mary Elizabeth (Sister) Schafer was born on June 4,1924 at home in Indianapolis, Indiana, the second of three children of Ralph Alvin Schafer and Sarah Mylrea (Findley) Schafer. She graduated from Thomas R Howe High school and attended the Turner Academy of gymnastics in Indianapolis. She graduated from Indiana University where she earned the Outstanding Student in the School of Physical Education award presented at her graduation. Following a correspondence courtship during WWII, she married her sweetheart, Herbert Eugene Allender on September 15,1946. Their honeymoon was a moving trip to Missoula, Montana, where Herb attended university and MaryBeth taught dance and swimming. The following year they transferred to University of Michigan and then finally to Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana, where MaryBeth continued to teach, Herb earned his degree, and their first child was born. They reared their family of three children in Indiana, Illinois, Georgia, and South Carolina before moving to Knoxville, TN in 1965. MaryBeth was an active and sustaining member of Akima Club and very active in First Christian Church where she was honored as an Elder Emeritus. She loved to play bridge. Her favorite hobby was sewing and she made clothing, draperies, and even her daughter’s beautiful wedding dress. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother and sister, her husband of 74 wonderful years, and her beloved youngest son, Bruce. She is survived by her children Janet (John) Duke, Gary (Rhonda) Allender, and her daughter-in-law MaryFaye (Neil) Kiely, 6 grandchildren in whom took great pride, and 12 great grandchildren whom she adored. There will be a Celebration of Life service at NorthSide Christian Church at a future date. Arrangements by Cremation Options, Inc. (865)6WE-CARE (693-2273) www.cremationoptionsinc.com.