Mary Bowden Defibaugh Minichan, 84, of Aiken, South Carolina, formerly of Barboursville, West Virginia, passed away peacefully in hospice care on May 24, 2025.
Born on February 18, 1941, in Cabell County, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Bettie and Richard Defibaugh. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Minichan, of 56 years.
Mary is survived by her three sons: Richard Lee Minichan (Jennifer) of Aiken, SC; John Allen Minichan (Kyra) of Gallatin, TN; and Robert William Minichan (Raine) of Lexington, KY. She also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Leatha Marie Ferdon (Jackson), Katie Lee Winkler (Nick), Richard Minichan, Perry Minichan, Blake Minichan, Tyler Minichan, and Mark David Minichan.
A proud graduate of West Virginia University with a degree in Home Economics, Mary also earned her Master of Education from Marshall University. She dedicated over 20 years to teaching in Cabell County Schools and was a lifelong learner. Beyond the classroom, Mary was a docent at the Huntington Museum of Art, a member of the Barboursville Planning Commission, and an active participant in civic life in her beloved hometown.
A devoted member of Kuhn Memorial Presbyterian Church, Mary found great joy in her faith and her community. She cherished the fellowship of her close-knit neighborhood group, loved hosting porch parties, participating in her book club, and playing bridge with friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 7th at Kuhn Memorial Presbyterian Church in Barboursville, WV. Visitation will take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a service and graveside committal.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Kuhn Memorial
Presbyterian Church in her memory.
Wallace Funeral Home, Barboursville, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
