Mary Elizabeth Couser, 84, of Jacksonville, North Carolina passed peacefully on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Onslow ECU Health Hospital.

She was born on February 21, 1940, in Charles City, Iowa to the late Gallus and Anna Hillsman Heit.  Mrs. Couser was also preceded in death by her husband David George Couser and her sister Wilma Ethun Heit.

Surviving to cherish her memory is her daughter Elizabeth "Liz" Couser of Jacksonville, NC; her son, Joseph "Joe" Couser and wife Dawn of St Louis, Missouri; brother Donald Heit of Chicago; nieces Ann Oleneck and Tammy Powell; nephews Andrew Aubrey, Brad Heit and Chris Heit; and numerous extended family and friends that loved Mary dearly.

Mary was a loving mother and caring lady who was loved by all.    She was a woman of uncommon character, beauty and grace; and to those who knew her, "an instrument of God's love on this earth."  Mary was a friend to all, a strong yet gentle presence who looked for and encouraged the best in everyone.  She was an avid dog lover and enjoyed watching birds and plants.  With a big heart and loving personality, Mary was always ready to help everyone.  She will surely be missed but treasured memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved Mary Elizabeth Couser.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Wallace.