Mary Nellie Smith

Mary Nellie Manock Gill Smith, 98, of Wahpeton, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, at Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo.

Mary was born on March 9, 1928, in a farmhouse northwest of Fairmount, ND, and was delivered by her father. She lived a life defined by resilience, generosity, and deep devotion to her family and faith. A longtime and faithful member of the United Church of Christ in Wahpeton, she found strength, purpose, and community within her church family.

Mary dedicated herself to farm life, embracing the hard work, rhythm, and responsibility that came with it. She was known for her handy‑woman skills, always ready to fix, build, or create whatever was needed. Most of all, she devoted herself to her family, who were the center of her world.

Throughout her life, one constant was the lake. In 1980, she purchased a cottage on Deer Lake, Minnesota, which quickly became the heart of countless family summers. The cottage was filled with her beloved Garfield and loon collections, each piece a reflection of her humor and the things she cherished. She loved catching “sunnies” and frying them up — simple moments that became treasured memories. The lake cottage grew into a true family haven, a place where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and memories were made that will be forever held close.

Mary found joy in life's simple pleasures. She especially loved watching The Lawrence Welk Show every Sunday evening, a tradition she looked forward to each week. In her younger years, she was an avid roller skater and cherished the fun and friendships that came with it. 

She will be remembered for her beautiful quilt making, a craft through which she poured love, patience, and creativity. Her grandchildren will forever treasure the sweet treats she always had waiting for them, a tradition that made every visit feel special. Those who knew her best will remember her go‑getting personality, a spirited determination that carried her through every season of life. 

Mary was preceded in death by her husbands, Daniel Gill (1977) and Robert Smith (2020); her parents, Loren and Elsie (Krause) Manock; her son, Jim Gill (2022); her daughter, Karen Bakken (2024); her siblings, Agnes Manock, Nathan Manock, Elaine Hubrig, George Manock, Lucille Miranowski, Lloyd Manock, Melvin Manock, and Marvin Manock; and her half‑brother, Arthur Manock, and half‑sister, Viola Miles.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Char Speidel; her sons, Jerry Gill and his wife Cynthia, David Gill; and her sister, Alice Buchholz. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Shelley Ugarte, Kyle Speidel, Cassie Foltz; Tim Bakken, Michele Graves, Jodi Bakken; Jon, Matt, and Jay Gill; Jason and Adam Gill; Chris Gill, Jennifer Pallas, and Josh Gill. In addition, she leaves behind many great‑grandchildren and great‑great‑grandchildren, all of whom will carry her memory with love.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Vertin‑Munson Funeral Home, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A reception and meal will follow the service. Mary will be laid to rest at a later date next to her first husband, Dan at Fairview Cemetery in Wahpeton.