Mary Elaine Pullen

Mary Elaine (Swisher) Pullen, 66, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, in Corvallis, Oregon. She was born on February 18, 1959, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Betty and Edwin Swisher.Mary’s early years were shaped by her father’s service in the United States Military, a commitment that brought the family to many places throughout her childhood. She lived in New Mexico, Utah, Hawaii and California before the family eventually settled in Newport, Oregon. Newport became home for Mary through her teenage years and into early adulthood. Mary loved to travel and see the world, traveling to places such as Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines when she was younger.

At the age of 20, Mary moved to Lebanon, Oregon, where she married George Pullen. Their time together was brief but meaningful, and his passing a few years later left a lasting imprint on her life. In time, Mary found love and companionship again with Mark Franklin, with whom she shared many devoted years and welcomed her two children, Vance and Summer. Mark’s passing was another profound loss, yet Mary continued to meet life with resilience, warmth, and quiet strength.

Mary was a woman of simple joys and deep passions. An avid reader, she could often be found with a book in hand, lost in stories that fed her imagination. She loved tending to her garden, nurturing life from the soil with patience and care. Cooking brought her comfort and connection, and she delighted in preparing meals for those she loved. For more than 20 years, she shared countless garage and yard sale adventures with her dear friend Harold Kosmalske—treasure hunting, laughing, and enjoying the small wonders of everyday life.Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Paul Heiken; her sister, Kathy Kaiser; her nephew, Derrek A. Klahr; her husband, George Pullen; and the father of her children, Mark Franklin.

She is survived by her children, Vance Allen Swisher and Summer Angel Swisher; her siblings, Eddie Swisher, Cynthia Swisher Assuras, and Christopher Swisher; and her many beloved nieces and nephews: Kim, Barbie, Dallas, Mindy, Marcy, Amelia, Kacey, Travis, Colton, Noah, and Christopher, along with her beloved pets who where more than just companions to her but great loves. Mary was a proud organ donor. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date.