Mary Salyer

Mary Lena Johnson Salyer

Beautiful, gentle and strong-like a flower in full bloom-our beloved Mary lived her 97 years with grace rooted deeply in her faith. She served as the matriarch of our family across generations; her life of devotion was gently guiding everyone she encountered toward a Christ centered way of living.

Mary Lena Salyer went home to be with the Lord on Friday November 14, 2025. Born in Harlan, Kentucky on April 1, 1928, to Arch and Maggie Johnson. She was the last of 10 children.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband Turner Gilmer Salyer Sr., three children: Reva Meade, Clyde Salyer, and Elizabeth Gobble; two grandchildren: Leah Heckford and Rachel Boger.

She is survived by her children Turner Gilmer Salyer Jr. and Freda Salyer; eighteen grandchildren and thirty-one great grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

One of Mary’s favorites from the Bible was Psalm 23. Rest Easy Good and Faithful Servant.

Funeral service will be conducted at 7:00pm on Tuesday November 18, 2025, in the Combs-Hess Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Jason Nunley officiating. The family will receive friends from 6pm until 7pm prior to the service. A committal service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday November 19, 2025, in the Chapel of Love Mausoleum at Temple Hill Memorial Park. Those wishing to attend should meet at the mausoleum by 12:45 pm.

Expressions of sympathy can be made on our Combs-Hess Funeral Service Facebook page and our website www.chfunerals.com. Combs-Hess Funeral Service, 291 Highway 71 Fincastle Road, Lebanon, Va. 24266 (276) 889-4444.