Known in the genealogical community as Maribeth Buce, she was an avid cemetery "nut".  She and her friend Barbara Weiss read cemeteries in more counties in the state of Texas than anyone can remember, along with cemeteries in 13 different states.  She was generous to a fault with her cemetery readings by posting them to Find-A-Grave, Cemeteries of Texas (and numerous others) and by telling everyone they were welcome to post them online on their genealogy web sites.

Sadly, breast cancer has claimed her life here on earth and has sent her home.  She will be missed by her family and many friends, and the genealogical community has lost a very valuable asset.

Maribeth wrote this for her bio on Find-A-Grave:
Don't remember when I first got interested in old graveyards but I love the history you can find in them. It is so nice to have this site where you can go "visiting" everyday, rain or shine!! Thanks to everyone who contributes to this wonderful site!!

My best friend and business partner, Barbara Weiss, helps me with the recording of the information, she loves old graveyards as much as I do. Many thanks to Barb for all her help!!

Obit

Maribeth Whittaker Edwards, 48, of Gilmer, passed  away Friday, March 25, 2005, due to a long illness.  Memorial services will be 4 p.m. Sunday, March 27,  2005, in the Fellowship Bible Church, with the Rev. Jim Johnson officiating.

Maribeth was born September 23, 1956, in Benton Harbor, Mich., and grew up in Hobbs, N.M., where she graduated from Hobbs High  School. She was also the co-owner of M&B Inventory for the last nine years.

She is survived by her husband, James W. Edwards, of Gilmer; daughter, Vanessa Autry, of Sacramento, Calif.; son, John Landrum, of Bridge City; father, Matthew Whittaker, of Hobbs, N.M.; and two brothers, Michael Whittaker, of Hobbs, N.M. and Steven Paul Whittaker, of Athens.  She will be missed by all who loved her.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, or to a favorite charity. Please leave online condolences at www.raderfh.com