Madeline Mercedes Geise, age 87, longtime resident of Willard, Ohio passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at OhioHealth Shelby Hospital. She was born on December 10, 1938 in Willard, Ohio to the late Gaylord and Mary (Cubbage) Miller.
Fondly known to most as Mercedes, she was employed with Pioneer Rubber Company, Valley High Ski Resort, Connelly Construction, AMF-Shelby, Ohio Power and RR Donnelley & Sons. A member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Mercedes was involved with the youth ministry, an usher, choir member, Bible study, and church council. She was awarded a Volunteer Award for her time given to both the St. Francis Xavier School and within the K of C’s. Mercedes also enjoyed her time spent singing in the choir at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Plymouth.
Mercedes poured her heart into the Girl Scouts where her dedication of over 40 years earned her the title of a Lifetime Member. She received the highest award, Women of Distinction, along with a volunteer award, Thanks badge, two Honor pins, and the President Award.
Being involved in the local school’s was a true honor to Mercedes; she never turned down an opportunity to chaperone a class trip and served time as Vice President of the Willard Band Boosters. A true staple to the Willard community sports, she hardly ever missed a game, no matter what sport it was. And you can bet if she could walk to those games, she would! If you knew of the lady with white, spikey hair walking around town, you knew Mercedes. The love she had for her family, faith and community is what everyone will know and remember most about her.
Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Kristi Schultz and Kerri (Willie) Robinson; three granddaughters, Amber, Kailie and Brittany (Devin); nine great grandchildren, Mikey, Huck, Bo, Aubrey, Serenity, Liam, Emie, Raiden and Atlas; sister, Barbara Snook; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her parents, Mercedes was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Robert “Bob” Geise who passed away on June 29, 2016; and two brothers, Gaylord “Fuzz” Miller and William “Bill” Miller.
Family and friends may visit at the Secor Funeral Home in Willard on Monday, February 9, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Willard from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Mercedes funeral mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be held at a later date at Greenlawn Cemetery in Greenwich, Ohio. Memorial contributions can be made to a Girl Scout troop of the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be left for her family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com.
Condolences
Dave and Debbie - Feb 9, 2026
We are very sorry to hear Mercedes passing. We remember great get togethers growing up with the McDowell‘s and Bob, Mercedes, Tom, Ann, and Chuck and Elaine Geise and all their families. Our parents, Bob and Betty McDowell, loved to spend time with all the Geise’s as did my brother Bob and sister Janice. May she rest in peace. 🙏🙏🙏
Sherry Long - Feb 9, 2026
Such a wonderful woman!!
Marsha Ganni - Feb 9, 2026
Mercedes family, Sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jim Enderby - Feb 8, 2026
So sorry to hear of Mercedes passing. She was a very special lady. When I would see her in Uncle Dudley’s she would always ask about my mother Doris. She was such a kind lady in everything she did. She will be missed so very much. Know she is now with the Lord in Heaven. Please hold those special memories in your hearts always. God Bless.
Johanna Playko - Feb 8, 2026
So sorry to hear of Mercedes passing. She was a year ahead of me in school and married a fella my class of ‘57. She so had so many health challenges and never never gave up regardless the struggle! She gave so much of herself to other people. I am sure God has taken her into His loving arms May she rest in peace 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Sandi & Mick O’Brien - Feb 8, 2026
Carrie, Kristi and Family So sorry to hear about your Mom. We was neighbors years ago on Woodbine Street. The last time I talked to her was at Uncle Dudley’s. Gave her a hug. She was a very special lady. God Bless
Deb - Feb 7, 2026
Always enjoyed talking with her. Sorry for your loss. In my prayers
Tom and Lucy Hay - Feb 7, 2026
Prayers are with whole family, we have missed her at church the last few months, but I'm sure she wanted to be there. She will be missed
Darlene Brown King - Feb 7, 2026
Barb and family, so sorry to hear about Mercedes' passing. Have not seen her in quit some time. I grew up around the corner from Mary. May she fly with the eagles. RIP!
Michaella O'Brien - Feb 7, 2026
I remember being your neighbor a few houses down on Woodbine Street. I've know you and your family since I was a little girl. You will be missed. Rest in peace.
Susie Kimble Smith - Feb 7, 2026
Mercedes was a wonderful lady!! Whether passing by her on a walk or running into her in a restaurant she always had a good conversation to chat about🥰 Prayers to the Family.
Jim & Christine Fisher - Feb 7, 2026
We are so sorry to hear of Mercedes' passing. She was such a joy to be around and chat with! May our Heavenly Father bless and comfort her family now and in the days ahead.
Linda Veletean - Feb 6, 2026
I have known your mom and grandma forever. What a special lady. I always enjoyed talking with her. So sorry to hear she passed.
Joe and Janene Reiderman - Feb 6, 2026
Kristi and Kerri, we are so very sorry to hear of your mom's passing. What a wonderful woman she was! She was always up for a chat whenever we saw her. The great love she had for all of her children and grandchildren was so evident. She was their best cheerleader. She will truly be missed around Willard. May all the wonderful memories, that were created throughout the years, bring joy to your hearts during this difficult time.
Kathy - Feb 6, 2026
Mercedes was a lovely woman. We volunteered together with several groups. Her straight talk, love of service and friendship will b e missed by all who knew her .
Harmon's - Feb 6, 2026
Mercedes was such a beautiful person, and cousin she will be in our hearts always. Prayers for you and your families. She fought a long battle.
Peggy M Opatken - Feb 6, 2026
Mercedes was always friendly at church and around town. May she rest in peace
Rita Dove - Feb 6, 2026
What a wonderful lady I am heart broken sending love and prayers to all of her family
Jolynn Ware - Feb 6, 2026
I enjoyed knowing your mother. Wonderful lady
Tiaunna - Feb 6, 2026
So sorry for your loss, thinking of you and your family ❤️
Brandy Mullins - Feb 6, 2026
I’m so sorry your loss. She was the sweetest lady and an inspiration to us girls growing up.
Shelley Hershiser - Feb 6, 2026
So sorry for your loss she was such an inspiration to the girls during Girl Scouts. She will be missed.
Anne Pahlm - Feb 6, 2026
I’m so sorry for your loss Kerri and Kristi praying for all 🙏🙏❤️
Terri Bays Schmidt - Feb 6, 2026
Kristi, Kerri and family. I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I always enjoyed talking with her, whenever I seen her out walking. Prayers for your family.
