Mary Alice Epperly

Mary Alice Epperly, beloved wife, mother, friend, and pillar of her community, passed away peacefully on March 26th, 2026 surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and enduring kindness.

Born on February 16, 1943, in Ames, Iowa, to Walter A. White and Helen C. Holzer, Mary Alice grew up surrounded by family and strong values that would guide her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her siblings John, Francis, Paul, Elizabeth, and David White.

Mary Alice pursued her passion for science at Iowa State University, earning her Master’s degree in Microbiology.

She went on to dedicate an extraordinary 50 year career as a Medical Microbiologist at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Through her work, she quietly touched countless lives, contributing to the health and well being of her community with expertise, precision, and care. Her career also provided her with lifelong friendships through peers and pupils who always loved and respected her. Her work friends became her lifelong best friends, and she always cherished her time with them and their children.

On May 15, 1994, she married the love of her life, Richard T. Epperly, with whom she shared many years of companionship and devotion. She was a loving mother to her adopted son, Thomas J. White.

Mary Alice’s commitment to helping others extended far beyond her professional life. She established the Mary Alice Epperly Scholarship through the Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) program at Iowa State University, encouraging and empowering young women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her generosity opened doors for future generations of scientists and leaders.

She was also a dedicated supporter of Orchard Place, an organization that held a special place in her heart. Having experienced firsthand the importance of compassionate care, Mary Alice gave generously of her time and resources to support children and families in need, hoping to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges. Caring for the homeless was also an integral part of her everyday life, as she was always thinking of others and finding ways to help those in need.

A faithful and active member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Mary Alice devoted herself to her church community in countless ways. She gave freely of her time, whether volunteering, supporting church programs, mentoring youth, or helping nurture the spiritual growth of others. She was also an amazing baker and a staple in her church’s kitchen, where she lovingly prepared baked goods that brought people together and were cherished by all. She was deeply loved by her church peers, and her creations became a beloved part of the community, always anticipated and never lasting long. Her recipes, like her soul and character, will be treasured for generations to come.

Mary Alice will be remembered for her caring heart and the genuine interest she took in others. She had a special love for her dogs and believed they could bring joy and companionship to seniors, just as they did for her. Her soul was as beautiful as the roses she cared for at her home. Words cannot express the lives she touched or the deep appreciation felt by the community around her.

To her friends and extended family, Mary Alice was a steady source of kindness, wisdom, and support, a true cornerstone whose impact will be felt for generations. She leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and quiet strength that will not be forgotten.

The family will be greeting friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church; 2600 East Euclid Ave, Des Moines. A funeral service will be held following the visitation at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Mary will be laid to rest at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in honor of Mary.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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