Mary Anna Isbell-Schafer, 71, passed away on February 24, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Born on September 22, 1954, in Wichita, she was the eldest daughter of William J. and Willodean Wells. Mary graduated from North High School in 1972 and later earned her degree from Wichita State University, where she also became the #2 player on the WSU tennis roster. She went on to share her love of the sport as an instructor at the Wichita Tennis Club. In 1989, she married James Isbell, and together they raised two children, Deanna Valentine and Daniel Isbell.

Mary's career path reflected her energy and entrepreneurial spirit. After more than 15 years with the World Trade Center and Thorn America, she became a food concessionaire in 1996, traveling to fairs and festivals across the Midwest for 12 years. She later opened Bierocks, Brats, and BBQ before shifting her focus to The Roadhouse at the Kansas State Fair, which she owned and operated for 25 years. Her specialty dishes and lemonade became fair favorites, and she took great pride in passing the family business on to her children.

Family was the center of Mary's world. She cherished time with her grandchildren, whether sharing ice cream or cheering them on at their activities. Thirteen years ago, she met the love of her life, Mike Schafer, and together they created many treasured memories, especially during their peaceful fishing trips to Grand Lake in Oklahoma. She also found joy in the simple pleasures of life—watching KC Chiefs and OU sports with family and tending her expansive backyard garden, where her remarkable green thumb flourished.

Mary's faith was a guiding force throughout her life. As a devoted member of NewSpring Church, she led small-group Bible studies, sang in the choir, served coffee, and poured her heart into every opportunity to help others. Her love for Jesus shaped her kindness, generosity, and her hope of being reunited with loved ones in Heaven. Through her church community, she formed many cherished friendships and enjoyed countless moments of fellowship.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her generosity, and the unwavering love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Mary is survived by her children, Deanna (Nick) Valentine of Garden Plain, KS; Daniel (Paula Chansy) Isbell of Wichita, Kansas; step-children: Cody Schafer of Douglas, OK and Kym Dodd of Bella Vista, AR; 14 Grandchildren/step-children: Addy and Aubrey Mendoza (Garden Plain, KS), Trent (Ashley), Aaron, and Madison Valentine (Garden Plain, KS), Alyana and Addalyn Chansy (Wichita, KS), Aydrik and Anora Isbell (Wichita, KS), Dalton Schafer (Douglas, OK), Savannah Schafer (Mustang, OK), Destiny Russell (Monin, Ill), Paxton and Gannon Dodd (Bella Vista, AR),  brother Jay (Carol) Wells of Wichita, KS; sister Connie (preceded in death by Wayne) Brock of Wichita, KS.

The memorial service will be held on March 19th at 2:00 pm at NewSpring Church. At the family's request, in place of flowers, memorials may be sent to NewSpring Church with a memo: Mary Isbell memorial.