Mary Louise Hafner

Mary Louise Hafner, of Farmington, entered eternal rest on March 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. Mary was born on May 29, 1930, in Farmington to Henry Jacob and Mary Loretta (Whistler) Crites, and passed at the age of 95

Mary was a woman of deep faith, boundless energy, and joyful curiosity. She was a devoted wife, a cherished mother and grandmother, and the heart of her family. She embraced life fully and shared that spirit generously with everyone she loved.

She opened the world to her children and grandchildren through travel and adventure, creating memories they will treasure forever. She delighted in taking them on special trips, introducing them to the beauty of the opera, the magic of theater, and unforgettable performances at the Fabulous Fox. She was always ready for fun and never shied away from excitement—whether riding adventurous attractions at theme parks or racing her grandchildren down enormous water slides. Her enthusiasm for life made every outing more memorable.

Mary’s home was a place of warmth, music, and discovery. Her love of singing filled her home, and music of every kind was woven into daily life. She also had a special love for film noir, a passion she passed down to two generations, creating a legacy of shared enjoyment that will live on.

Mary was an Elementary School Teacher and she and her Husband owned and operated Little People's Pre-School Center in Farmington. Mary was a faithful Christian, devoted to the Blessed Mary, and lifetime parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the VFW Post #5896 of Farmington Ladies Auxiliary, where she previously served as President and Secretary.

She is lovingly survived by her children: Richard L. (Kay) Hafner Jr. of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; Karen (Keith) Hutson of Farmington, Missouri; Sharen (David) Armstrong of Denver, Colorado; and Gerald (Lisa) Hafner of St. Robert, Missouri. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Mary Kate (Daniel), Nicholas, Rachael (Jeff), Andrew (Crystal), Matt (Angel), Brian (Kim), Jeff, Curt (Dominic), Maggie (Matt), James (Adriana), Tina, Christopher (Megan), and Brooke; her great-grandchildren: Emily, Gwen, Hallie, Karrine, Kai, Mason, Noah, Logan, Evan, Ava, Riley, Hayden, Carter, Heaven, Christian, Mary, Adam, Vanessa, Garrett, Madison, Heidi, Emery, Sadie, Kendal, Isaiah, Elijah, and Isaac; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews; her special friend of 85 years and maid of honor, Helen Ledbetter of Farmington; her devoted caregivers, Tonya Kinard and Deana Fortman and their families; and many other extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard Hafner; her son, Charles (the late Rose) Hafner; her son-in-law, Keith Hutson, siblings, Mae Bovine, Leo Crites, Monroe Crites, William Luther Crites, John Crites, Arthur Crites, Julius Crites, Tony Crites, and Joseph Harley. her grandchildren, Tabitha and Sarah (her husband, Matt, survives); her great-grandchildren, Anthony and Jacob

More than anything, Mary loved her family. She gave them not only her love, but her example—showing them how to be curious, courageous, joyful, and open to the world. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Farmington, with Father Gerson Parra as celebrant. Interment will follow at New Calvary Catholic Cemetery attended by immediate Family. The Family invites you to Lunch, served at the St. Joseph Parish center and hosted by The Women of Mary, after the Mass.

Mary was an avid supporter of St. Jude Research Hospital and donations can be made in her name.

Mary’s family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Heart and Soul Hospice, especially Wynne White, for their compassionate care during her final days.

View the video tribute and share condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.