Mary Alyce Gonder

Mary Alyce Gonder, known to some as Mae, was born on July 8, 1942 in Kansas City, Missouri and passed away July 1, 2026 in Leesburg, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness and quiet strength that touched all who knew her.

She was a woman whose life reflected the grace of God in both word and deed. Mary Alyce Gonder lived with a spirit that was faith filled, generous, and selfless, and she carried those gifts into every season of her life. Her genuine manner, steady presence and loving heart made her a blessing to her family, friends, church, and community. Those who were fortunate enough to know her will remember her as a woman who served with humility and loving without hesitation.

Mary Alyce received her education at Howard High School, where she was a proud member of the Fighting Wild Bulls Class of 1962. Her school years helped shaped the determined and dependable woman she became. She carried herself with dignity and purpose, and she remained connected to the values of hard work, and perseverance throughout her life.

For 42 years, Mary Alyce served at Munroe Regional Medical Center, now Advent Health, as a Dietician Clerk. Her long career was a testimony to her faithfulness and commitment. She was also deeply devoted to Christ and to her church family. She was a member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church – Ocala where she served in many roles and served faithfully as a Stewardess in her later years. Her life in church was central to who she was and she found joy in worship, fellowship, and service to the Lord and His elect.

In her personal life, Mary Alyce found joy in simple but meaningful pleasures. She loved cooking and her kitchen was a place where care and warmth were often expressed through the meals that she prepared. Including her decadent bread pudding! She also loved CB radios, an interest that reflected her curiosity and connectivity to the world itself. Whether through conversation, service or everyday tasks, she brought sincerity and displayed a servant’s heart in all she did. Her presence had a way of making others feel welcomed and valued.

Mary Alyce was a beloved daughter of Henry Gonder and Willie Mae Steward-Clark, both whom proceeded her in death. She was also proceeded in death by her brothers, Leonard Gardner and Ernest Gonder, along with three beloved Aunts and five Uncles. She is survived by her sons, Pernell Roberts (Bernadette) and Embry “Chuck” Kinsler (Yvette). Her family circle includes her grandchildren, Kynnis Shelton (Kiawsha), Khristian and Devan Roberts and David Smith (Courtney). Three great-grandchildren, Kynnidee and Kylee Shelton and Nalo Roberts. A devoted niece, Shay Gonder-Dickens, along with many more loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Though she has departed this earthly life, Mary Alyce’s spirit remains alive in the faith that she shared, the love she gave and the example she set. Her eternal reward has now begun and may those who celebrate her life be comforted by the promises of El Shaddai, God Almighty. Strengthened and comforted by the knowledge that she now rests in His everlasting arms.