Mary Anestra Tunia

Mary Anestra Tunia, 66, Fayetteville Ark., died Dec. 24, 2014, after a long struggle with cancer. Born June 21, 1948, in Biloxi, Miss., Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Beverly (Ferguson) Tunia; and brother, John Tunia. Survived by her lifelong friend, Mary Scheele; two godsons, Corey and Ezekiel Mayberry; sister, Andrea Tunia and spouse, Leigh Sterten; sister-in-law, Yvonne Broyles Tunia; and niece, Theresa Tunia (Russell) McKee; and two great-nephews, John and Sam. Mary served as a Religious Sister of Mercy for 27 years and earned a masters of education degree. She also worked for the Arkansas Department of Human Services until her recent retirement. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015, at Beard's Funeral Chapel. Cremation arrangements by Beard's Chapel. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be set up, so please send donations to Beard's Funeral Chapel, 855 S. Happy Hollow Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.