Mary Bertha Garst

Mary Bertha Garst, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away surrounded by her loving family on September 12, 2026. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and wife.

Mary was born in Washington County, Maryland, on February 10, 1953, to the late Seth K. and Genevieve (Beckley) Schnebly. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 33 years, James Garst, and was also preceded by her father-in-law, Denton Garst.

Raised on Crown Stone Farm in Clear Spring, Maryland, Mary graduated from Clear Spring High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from Frostburg State University. She dedicated her life to raising her three children and working alongside her husband on the family farm. Mary also served her community through her many years working at Frederick Community College, where she supported students in both the campus bookstore and the Testing Center.

Mary’s faith and community were central to her life. She was an active and dedicated member of the Frederick Church of the Brethren, where she was a member of the Women’s Guild and the Friendship Sunday School Class, and served as a Deacon. Outside of the church, Mary enjoyed trips to the beach in Ocean City, Maryland and was an avid gardener. Above all else, her greatest joy was spending time with her beloved grandchildren.

Mary is survived by her three children: Lindsey McInerney and husband Mitch of San Diego, California; Lisa Chakalis and husband Tony of Middletown, Maryland; and Lucas Garst of Frederick, Maryland. She leaves behind five beloved grandchildren: Branch, Ryder, and Navy Chakalis, and Blair and Margot McInerney.

She is also survived by her brothers, Bill Schnebly and his wife Susie, and John Schnebly and his wife Pam, all of Clear Spring, Maryland; her mother-in-law Peggy Garst, sisters-in-law, Linda Bruchey and husband Charles, and Nancy Hawkins and husband Bill; her brother-in-law, Kenny Garst and wife Peggy Sue, all of Frederick, Maryland; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Avenue in Frederick, MD.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Frederick Church of the Brethren. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Living, Inc., of Frederick, Maryland, in Honor of Lucas Garst.