Gilmary "Pickle" Stoney Meffert

Gilmary “Pickle” Stoney Meffert, 69, of Ocala, Florida, passed away surrounded by her children on August 6 ,2024. She was born October 28, 1954, to the late Gil and Lottie Stoney. Pickle is preceded in death by her husband, Mike Meffert, and her son, Jacob. She leaves behind her children, John Meffert (Jill), Jordan Surdam (Shannon), Jennifer Meffert, and stepson, Todd Young (Shannon). Pickle was also the best Gee Gee to her grandchildren, Reese, John, Dane, and Paige. Pickle was raised in Crystal River, Florida. She spent many summers swimming in the springs and made memories in her family’s restaurant, The Green Tavern. Pickle was proud to be a Crystal River Pirate, graduating from Crystal River High School in 1972. She loved sharing stories of her time as a majorette and a cheerleader. She was very quick-witted and often told the story of earning the “Most Sarcastic” superlative in high school. Pickle met Mike Meffert after moving to Ocala to attend the College of Central Florida. Pickle and Mike married on March 7, 1975, and they went on to welcome four children. Pickle later remarked that she wished that she had a career early on in life, but actually, her career was her children. No truer words could be spoken. Although Pickle got her nickname as a baby for not smiling and being “sour like a dill pickle”, she smiled from ear to ear when talking about her children. Pickle was a mother first and devoted to her kids. She could often be seen driving around Ocala in her orange and blue Gator van, shuffling kids to every sports practice or game under the sun. She was always the homeroom mom, the team mom, and the cheerleading sponsor. For years, she ran the Scott Carrigan baseball concession stand, making for countless dinners of nachos and hotdogs for her family. She took great joy in following her kids in sports and was undeniably the loudest person cheering in the stands. Having four children at home, Pickle often opened her home to all of their friends, treating them as her own. Pickle was an avid reader, with a love of true crime stories and suspense thrillers. She would often soak in the bathtub for hours, even refilling the tub, reading and relaxing. We figured she needed a break from the chaos that would ensue with a house full of kids, and her relaxation was well-deserved! After Mike’s untimely passing in 1996, Pickle served students at Forest High School in a non-instructional role before taking a position at the Marion County Clerk of Court as a Records Clerk. Pickle enjoyed helping and serving her community until her retirement in 2020. Pickle loved to share stories of her childhood or history, often recounting even the smallest details. She definitely had a gift and could talk for hours. This is how those who love her will remember her. In the last few years, Pickle suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The disease stole her voice, her stories, and her memories, but they live on through her family and dear friends who loved her so. Pickle was an amazing woman, genuine and generous to a fault. Her greatest pride was watching her children grow and succeed in life. She leaves behind a legacy of care, of showing up, and being present for those you love no matter the circumstance. The family will be holding a private ceremony to honor Pickle’s memory at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the non-profit organization, Death with Dignity. This organization is a national leader in end-of-life advocacy and policy reform. Their mission is to improve how people with terminal illnesses die. Visit www.deathwithdignity.org to learn more.

Gilmary "Pickle" Stoney Meffert

October 28, 1954 - August 6, 2024