MaryLou Miklas

MaryLou Miklas, born MaryLou Schweiger on January 9, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Louis and Grace Schweiger, passed away on March 10, 2026. The middle of three children, she grew up in a religious home and attended the local Presbyterian church. Her faith became personal one summer at the Pinebrook Bible Conference under the ministry of Percy Crawford, where, after resisting the Holy Spirit’s prompting, she gave her life to the Lord, later reflecting, “I fought—but I did not win.”

In her high school years, following a move to Perry Hall, Maryland, MaryLou became deeply involved in Youth for Christ, eventually serving as president of her school’s chapter. It was during this time that she met David, whom she would marry. She went on to attend Washington Bible College, earning a degree in Christian Education. In 1964, as her mother battled cancer, she and David moved up their wedding date and were married on June 6.

For the next 53 years, MaryLou served faithfully alongside her husband in pastoral ministry and church planting. She had a deep love for music and used her gifts generously, leading adult and children’s choirs, directing musical programs and plays, and playing the marimba in services. Her heart for children was evident as she taught children’s church, organized Vacation Bible Schools, and invested countless hours in helping young people know Christ. Outside the church, she drove a school bus and later taught middle school history and Bible, always making sure overlooked or fringe students felt loved and accepted.

MaryLou was deeply proud of her family and cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and growing number of great-grandchildren. At family gatherings, she was often in the middle of the fun, teaching the next generation how to hit a Wiffle ball or starting water gun battles. She is remembered for her love of Jesus, her willingness to serve wherever needed, and a lifetime of faithful ministry.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, David, and their children: Jonathan (Christine) Miklas, Grace (Tom) Krug, Joel (Rachel) Miklas, Ruth (Tim) Ritter, and Rebecca (Eric) Burke; 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. MaryLou’s greatest desire was that others, especially her family, would know Christ and grow in their faith. Her life was a beautiful testament to the goodness and faithfulness of God.