Mary Beth Ingram

Mary Beth Ingram of Cozad passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Lexington Regional Hospital at the age of 73. Mary was born on January 9, 1952, near Scribner, Nebraska to Charles and Florence (Brandenburg) Benner and spent her early years in Scribner before moving to Venango, where she graduated from high school with the class of 1970. After high school, Mary moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, to attend Ben Your Hairdresser Academy, graduating with her cosmetology license in 1971. She also attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for a year in the nursing program.

Mary fell in love with Doug Ingram while at UNL, and the couple married on August 11, 1972. They settled in Cozad, Nebraska, where they started their family in 1976. Together, they raised three children: Lindsay, Patrick, and Courtney.

For many years, Mary was a devoted stay-at-home mom. Once her children were older, she returned to work, doing secretary work at various feedlots throughout the county. Later, she joined the NDR – Soil Conservation Service office, where she worked for many years until her early retirement.

Mary had a passion for helping people and found joy in simple acts of kindness. She was an excellent baker and often made Christmas cookie trays for neighbors and friends. Her homemade caramel popcorn became a beloved treat in Cozad. Mary was known for her generous heart, always inviting friends and family to share meals, no matter how many extra people showed up at the dinner table.

She also had a love of being outside creating her dream yard landscape. It took many years, but the hard work paid off and she enjoyed sitting outside in the nice weather and just taking it all in. One of her favorite things was to sit on her deck in the morning having coffee and enjoying the sunrise.

Despite facing challenges after suffering a stroke, Mary remained a beacon of positivity. She asked loved ones, “Tell me the best thing that happened to you today?” during conversations, making everyone feel appreciated and valued. Mary was also deeply spiritual; she studied her Bible daily and often shared her favorite scriptures.

Mary cherished the thought of reuniting with her lost loved ones, especially her son Patrick. Her family can only imagine the warmth and joy of their reunion.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Charles and Florence Benner, a brother Todd, her son Patrick and her grandchildren; Chase, Parker and Riley.

Surviving family left behind; her husband, Doug Ingram, daughters, Lindsay, and husband Matt Franson of Lincoln, NE, Courtney, and husband Pedro Avila of Lincoln, NE, grandchildren; Noah, Madison, Christopher and Isaiah all of Lincoln, siblings; John, Gail and Scott, residing in various states, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Cozad United Methodist Church with Pastor Bellarmee Milosi officiating. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Thursday, December 4, 2025 from 5 to 7 at Berryman Funeral Home.