Mary B. “Bernie” Duerbeck, age 88, of Blairsville, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Robert J. Geier, Sr., and Margaret E. Kuhn Geier. Mary devoted most of her life to caring for her home and family as a loving homemaker.

Mary was deeply devoted to her husband, Charles, who preceded her in death. He was always her number one. She cherished time spent with family, whether hosting gatherings for her own loved ones or welcoming extended family into her home. Known for her love of cooking, Mary took great joy in making sure everyone was well fed and cared for.

Christmas was especially dear to her heart. She delighted in baking cookies, preparing festive meals, and decorating a beautiful Christmas tree—each detail a reflection of her love for her family. Mary also enjoyed preparing and serving meals at the Scottish Rite, where her presence brought warmth and life to the kitchen. She never met a stranger and loved talking with everyone she encountered.

A devoted Catholic, Mary’s faith was an important part of her life, guiding her actions and relationships.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Michele (Peter) McConaughy of Forest Hill, MD; Denise (Trent) Hodge of Blairsville, GA; and Deborah (Christopher) Parr of Keedysville, MD; her sisters, Margaret Rew of Rockville, MD, and Dorothy O’Brien of Melbourne, FL; and her brother, Joseph Geier of Bel Air, MD. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Bethany, Abigail, Ben, Courtney, Brandon, Kimberly, and Kelly; and her great-grandchildren, Tara, Tiffanie and Dax. Preceded in death by siblings; Robert Geier, Edward Geier, Anna Bailey, Eleanor Sturbaum, Katherine Crenshaw, Theresa Garrett and Angela Frederick.

She will be remembered for her kindness, her generous and serving spirit, and the love she poured into her family and friends.