Mary Lynn Bergsten

On December 22, 2015, Mary Lynn Bergsten was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She yielded up her pure and gentle spirit to its creator. For the first time in twenty-five years she is free of pain. She passed at Otterbein Retirement Center after a long battle with rheumatoid arthritis and dementia. Born in Lexington, KY on September 16, 1942 to her parents James Henry Kays and Dellas Hale Kays, who preceded her in death, Mary Lynn had one brother, Jimmy Kays, who also predeceased her. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Brian Bergsten, and her children Annie (Eric) Molnar, and Paul (Melanie) Bergsten. She has five grandchildren, Cole and Maggie Molnar, and, Hunter, Chase, and Mason Bergsten. Mary Lynn graduated from Asbury College, Wilmore, KY with a BA in Music Education and Organ Performance. She also earned a Master's degree in Music from the University of Kentucky. She taught music in the Lexington schools for two years, and, after her marriage in August 1967, two more years in West Carrollton, OH. Mary Lynn was a truly extraordinary woman. Upon moving to the Dayton area, she joined the Local chapter of the American Guild of Organists, and soon became the Dean of the organization. She and Brian joined the newly founded Fairhaven Church, and Mary Lynn became organist. Her involvement with the music program was a key in its growth to its present megachurch status. She was instrumental in the installation of a magnificent pipe organ at the current Fairhaven. Mary Lynn was in charge of the children's music program at Fairhaven, and when she was no longer able to play the organ, due to arthritis, she founded the Kettering Children's Choir. The choir gained national recognition with many trips around the US and three European tours. Mary Lynn was a beautiful individual who was loved by many. She was a wonderful mother and loyal friend. Everything she did was done with excellence. Whether it was a music program at the church, a KCC performance, or one of many parties in her home, everything was done for the Glory of the Lord. A multitude of people have been touched by her life of service. A Celebration of her life will be held at Fairhaven Church, Centerville, OH on January 5, 2016. Family will receive friends at 10:00 am and with service at 11:00 am. Pastors Jim Futrell, Ron Julian, Pete Schwalm and Ted Zabel will participate.