Gloria Jean Beckner, 84, Ligonier, passed away at 7:55 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017, at Parkview Noble Hospital in Kendallville.

She was born on July 21, 1933, the daughter of George and Nellie (Baker) Leatherman in Chicago, Ill. On Jan. 29, 1949, she married John F. Beckner Jr.; he preceded her in death on Jan. 28, 2000. Together they shared nearly 51 years of marriage.

Beckner is survived by her children: Rosemary (Norman Smith) Mawhorter, Peace Valley, Mo.; Douglas Beckner, Ligonier; Marcelyn (Steve) Harman, Bradenton Beach, Fla.; and Mark (Debbie) Beckner, Ligonier; fifteen grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; and thirteen great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a granddaughter, Laura King; a daughter-in-law, Frankie (Stouder) Beckner, and her companion, Morris Barrett.

Beckner was a member of the Ligonier United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the Rome City American Legion. She worked at Essex Wire for many years and enjoyed reading, crocheting, crossword puzzles, and bird watching.

A funeral service will be held in her honor at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 31, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, IN 46767. Pastor Diana Siegel will officiate. Burial will follow at Sparta Cemetery in Kimmell.

Family and friends will be received prior to the service on Sunday from 1-3 p.m.at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to Noble County Humane Society.

Yeager Funeral Home in Ligonier is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.yeagerfuenralhome.com.