Mary M. Hancock, 85, of Spearfish, South Dakota, formerly of Pine Haven, Wyoming, passed away on October 17, 2026, at Garden Hills Assisted Living.
Mary was born December 20, 1940 to German immigrant parents in Sheridan, Montana. She attended school in Sheridan before moving with her family to Twin Bridges, Montana, where she graduated from high school and met the love of her life, Rod Hancock. They were married in 1959.
Mary attended Western Montana College and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Music. Music remained an important part of her life as she taught lessons, sang at church services and special events, and performed as a soloist at numerous funerals.
Throughout their marriage, Mary and Rod lived in several communities across Montana, Virginia, Colorado, and South Dakota, as well as Heidelberg, Germany, before settling in the Black Hills. Mary became actively involved in the Black Hills Passion Play, performing in numerous roles over the years. She also participated in local musicals, performed at the Matthews Opera House, and continued sharing her love of music.
Mary was deeply devoted to community service. She was involved with the Royal Neighbors of America, local recreation boards, the Chamber of Commerce, the Christian Women’s Club, the National Day of Prayer, and numerous other community organizations and events.
Mary enjoyed staying active and had a love for sports, including golfing, skiing, volleyball, bowling, and swimming. She also enjoyed dancing, acting, arts and crafts, and creating beautiful tole paintings.
Mary and Rod shared a passion for horseshoe pitching, organizing tournaments and contributing to the sport for many years. In 1993, they were honored with induction into the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame.
In 1999, Mary and Rod moved to Pine Haven, Wyoming, where Mary continued her dedication to helping others. She founded the Keyhole Chapter of Royal Neighbors of America, raising funds to support local families, children’s activities, and community organizations.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, and daughter.
Above all, Mary treasured her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Christi Haggberg (Daniel Haggberg) of Spearfish, South Dakota, and Cheryl Wolff (Jim Wolff) of Colony, Wyoming. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Brandon Hancock, Shon Clauser, Jared Wolff, Kalee Arsaga, Shaina Wolff, Kaitlin Clauser, Alexa Heidrich, and Chance Heidrich, as well as 15 great-grandchildren.
Mary will be remembered for her generous heart, love of music, creativity, community involvement, and dedication to her family. Her legacy of kindness, service, and love will live on through the many lives she touched.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be held in the Spring.
Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at https://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com/
