Mary Ellen (Klinedinst) Barnhart

Mary E. Barnhart

YORK - Mary “Peg” Ellen Barnhart completed her journey here on earth surrounded by her loved ones on November 5th, 2025, at the age of 103. She was the beloved wife of the late Jack Barnhart Sr. 

She was born on July 17th, 1922. Mary was the daughter of the late Erwin and Nellie (Keller) Klinedinst. 

            She is preceded in death by her son Jack R. Barnhart Jr. and her daughter in law Sandy Barnhart. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl and Bruce Preperato, as well as her youngest son Jeff Barnhart.

            A lover of cards and crocheting, Mary joyously passed on her passions to her growing family. Newborn grandchildren received a meticulously crafted blanket, each loop perfect and traced with her perfume. This was no small feat as Mary served as a nurturing and loving grandmother to six, great grandmother to 12, great great grandmother to 9, and aunt to many nieces and nephews. Despite the incredible size of her family, Mary ensured each child felt the limitlessness of her love. 

Devoted does not begin to describe her relationship with her family. Mary lived the entirety of her life on the same property that she was born on. From the dreamy scent trails of her baked goods and dinners, to the bright flowers lining the small house that so many felt was a second home; Mary and her husband made their little piece of Pleasureville a fairytale, full of love and celebration. She hosted many Sunday dinner. Her grandchildren recall a near constant bustle, a buzz of laughter and great storytelling from both the many guests and Jack and Mary themselves. The two were a quick witted and adventurous pair. Mary’s spunky spirit was accentuated through Jack’s love of a clever jest and her tenderness through his own affection. Mary had a uniquely powerful zest for life. Tears would spring from her eyes as she’d shake with uncontrollable laughter at the retelling of a joke she had played over 70 years ago. She was contagiously spirited, perhaps a bit mischievous, one of the most strong-willed people you’d ever known; but above all, full of a type of love that knew no bounds. 

Please meet at the cemetery by 11:45 AM on Saturday. Her graveside service will begin at Noon, Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Mount Zion Cemetery, 3101 Deininger Road, York, PA.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Leber Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Dover, PA. 

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Pleasureville Christian Church, 2606 North Sherman Street, York, PA. 17406.

To share memories of Mrs. Barnhart, please visit www.leberfh.com

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