Mary Jane Baxter

Mary Jane (Metz) Baxter, age 75, of Viola, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at her home surrounded by love. She was born on June 14, 1950, in Dexter, Missouri, to Alvin Metz and Elizabeth (Metz) Stuart.

Mary lived a life full of compassion, kindness, and devotion to others. Her greatest passion was caring for children, and she spent many years working in childcare, where she touched countless young lives with her gentle heart and patient spirit. She believed every child deserved love and guidance, and she gave that freely.

Family was the center of Mary’s world. She treasured every moment spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her warm smile, comforting words, and unconditional love will forever be remembered by those who knew her best.

On July 13, 2007, Mary married the love of her life, William R. “Bill” Baxter, in Hoxie, Arkansas. Together they built a life of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Mary leaves behind her loving husband, William “Bill” Baxter of Viola, Arkansas; her son, Terry Dwayne Turner (Jackie) of Wynne, Arkansas; two daughters, Jennifer Kay Turner of Batesville, Arkansas, and Nikki Schlinker of Springdale, Arkansas; three beloved grandchildren, Kennedie, Abeni, and Ethan; and two precious great-grandchildren, Wrenley and Knoxly. She is also survived by her sister, Alice Crites (Brad) of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and her brother, Robert Metz of Dexter, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mary’s family finds comfort in knowing she left this world as she lived in it—with love, grace, and faith. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Elite Hospice of Mountain Home, Arkansas. No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.