‘Counting On’ Star Mary Duggar Dead at 78

The Duggar family is mourning the loss of one of their own today. Mary Duggar, who often appeared on “19 Kids and Counting” and “Counting On,” has died. She was 78.

Mary’s loved ones remembered her on social media, revealing she passed away suddenly on Sunday. It is unclear how she died.

The family wrote, “We are so sad to share that Grandma Duggar (Mary) passed away Sunday afternoon, June 9th, 2019. Mary Lester Duggar grew up in Farmington, Arkansas and was married almost 50 years to J.L. (Jimmy Lee) Duggar who preceded her in death.”

The message also paid tribute to the matriarch, saying, “She is greatly loved and will be missed so very much! She lived a tremendous life as a follower of Christ, a wife, a devoted mother, a loving mother-in-law, and a much-loved grandmother. Proverbs 31:10-31 describes the virtuous woman, indeed she personified these beautiful verses with her life.”

The real estate broker is survived by her children Deanna and Jim Bob, as well as 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren with “several more great-grandchildren on the way.”

Granddaughter Jill Dillard shared a photo of Mary, along with the message, “My heart breaks 💔 My grandma died suddenly today! She was an amazing woman of God and such a great example to so many! 🌸 Grandma, you are greatly missed by all who knew you! 💕 She was a feisty, incredible woman who always took the time to talk about Jesus with everyone she knew! I know she was ready to check outta here and get her new body in heaven before the old one started giving her too much trouble! 😉 We miss you so much!! 😭💔#maryduggar #rip#grandmaduggar#safeinthearmsofjesus❤”

Jill’s sister Jinger wrote, “Yesterday, this precious woman went home to be with Jesus. Our hearts are broken, yet at peace, knowing that she is now in glory with her Savior. She was the best grandma, counselor, friend, woman of faith, bargain shopping buddy, McDonald’s fish sandwich lovin’ lady, who was always up for an adventure—whether across town or across the world! She loved the Lord more than anything, and thus shared the hope of Jesus Christ with everyone who crossed her path. She was always there for her family, and was so sacrificial in her service toward us. She will be greatly missed. Thank you for your prayers for our family during this immensely difficult time.”

Anna Duggar, who is married to Mary’s grandson Josh, shared, “Great-Grandma Duggar went to heaven today to be with Jesus! 😭 What an awesome woman of faith and such a loving example of God’s love. She was a true soul-winner and loved everyone she met, telling them to turn from sin and trust Jesus for salvation! Miss her soooo much and we cherish each moment we were blessed to spend together! Lots of tears being shed here — grateful for all the prayers! 💕😭”

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