Mary “Louise” Hembree Dyal, age 87, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, at Salem Crossing in Salem, Indiana. Born in Loogootee, Indiana, she was the beloved daughter of Earnest and Dorothy Hembree. On June 2, 1956, Louise married the love of her life, Garland “Gene” Dyal.

Louise worked at RCA in Bloomington, Indiana, and later as a cashier for Raymond White at the Odon Red & White, where she was known for her friendly spirit and warm connection with others. 

She was a faithful attendee of Frady United Methodist Church in Raglesville and an active member of the Raglesville Homemakers Club, always finding joy in serving and connecting with her community. 

Louise had a gift for bringing people together. She loved hosting family gatherings, traveling, and staying involved in the lives of those she loved. Her sense of humor was unforgettable; she delighted in making others laugh and was especially known for her entertaining role as “Gerdy” at family gatherings, bringing joy and laughter to all who knew her. 

She is survived by her son, Doug (Michelle) Dyal of Glendale, IN, and grandchildren, Ethan Dyal (Davi) and Alyssa Arvin (Grant); her daughter, Melanie “Janie” Rees (Tom) of Dallas, Texas, and grandchildren Logan (Keri) Brinegar of Palmyra, Indiana, Devin Ware of Minnesota, Alexander Ware, and Larissa Ware of Arkansas; siblings: Patricia (Ruthie) Kidwell, Karen (Tom) Wade, Joan (Pat) Kluesner, Herb Hembree, Chester (Patty) Hembree, Kenny (Janet) Hembree, Mark (Darlene) Hembree, Brenda Marks, Cheryl (Doug) Sult, and David (Bryan) Hembree; special friend and dear companion, Don Sinclair; along with several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest B. and Dorothy Hembree; her beloved husband, Gene Dyal; and her siblings, Denny Hembree, Earnest Hembree Jr. (“Bubby”), Linda Fleck, and Doris “Jean” Baker. Louise will be remembered for her generosity, her deep love for others, and her ability to bring joy and laughter into every room she entered. 

Her life was a beautiful reflection of love, faith, and kindness, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services to honor the life of Louise will be at 12:00 Noon on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon with Ken Fuller officiating. Mary will be laid to rest in Raglesville Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 Noon on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to spend time with your family in memory of Mary.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family at www.mengfuneralhome.com.