Mary Callas Gettings, 89, of Ottumwa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on November 13, 1936 in St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada, to Ralph and Kathleen Legge, Mary was one of twelve children. She grew up with a strong spirit and a deep devotion to her family—qualities that remained the foundation of her life.
Mary married the love of her life, Larry Callas, and together they built a family rooted in warmth, resilience, and unwavering support for one another. She was a devoted mother to five children: Marie Callas (Richard Davidson) of Des Moines; twins Mary and Laurie Callas, who passed away at birth; George Callas (Wanita) of Olathe, Kansas; and Steve Callas (Ann Dahlgren) of Portland, Oregon.
After the death of her first husband, Mary was fortunate to find another great love, Don Gettings of Ottumwa. They spent 22 wonderful years together and lovingly combined their families. Mary especially cherished gaining more grandchildren and great grandchildren during this time, embracing each new addition with joy.
Following Don’s passing, Mary again found companionship and love with Don McKelvey of Ottumwa, expanding her circle of family and friendship even further. She treasured the closeness and connection they shared.
Mary was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren, Amy Abbott (Chris) of Spring Hill, Kansas, Nick Callas (Shannon) of Lenexa, Kansas, Samantha Simianer (Mike) of Spring Hill, Kansas and Alana Callas of Portland, Oregon. She also delighted in her four great grandchildren, Christian Abbott, Casen Abbott, Ruthie Abbott and Riggs Simianer, each of whom brought her immense joy.
Before retiring, Mary worked at Answer Iowa and later as a secretary in the Iowa Senate for her husband, Don Gettings. She enjoyed both roles and took pride in the relationships she built and the work she accomplished.
Mary loved watching and attending sporting events, visiting casinos, traveling whenever she could, golfing, and bowling. She spent her final years at Pennsylvania Place, where she made many new friends. She was known for her warm smile, her stylish clothing, and her ability to brighten any room she entered.
Mary’s life was defined by her kindness, her quiet strength, and her ability to make every person she met feel valued. She cherished time with her family, celebrated their accomplishments, and supported them through every season of life. Her legacy lives on in the generations who loved her deeply.
She will be remembered for her gentle humor, her steadfast love, and the grace with which she moved through the world.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Monday, June 1st at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Curtiss officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawn Cemetery.
Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
