Mary Fell passed away on October 18, 2026 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was a wonderful teacher at IU East for many years and an accomplished poet. Most importantly, she was a dear friend to many and was the dearly beloved stepmother to both Michelle Cheatem (Jamie), and Micah Brewer; step-grandchildren, Jamison and Kaydence. Below is one of her poems that seems particularly appropriate for the next phase of her journey:

Opening

How long has the blossom

hidden itself in the bud?

In the clutch of the swan

How long the cygnet? In the fruit

how long the seed? Now

the safe and secret dark unfolds,

everything yearning

into passionate light.

--Mary Fell

There will be a Celebration of Life at Friends Fellowship on November 7th at 3:00pm in the Community Room.

In lieu of flowers, please think about donating to either

Abby's House (Abby Kelley Foster House, Inc.)

Non-Profit organization in Worcester, Massachusetts

52 High St, Worcester, MA 01609

You can also donate online: https://abbyshouse.org/donate/

or

A Better Way (formerly Genesis House) 66 S. 12th St.

Richmond, IN 47374

You can also donate online:

https://abetterwaymuncie.org/donate/online/