Mary Elizabeth (Slusser) Blalock died Thursday October 13, 2011 in Monett, MO. She was 95 years old. Maribeth was born July 18, 1916 in Joplin, MO and grew up in Willow Springs, MO. She graduated from SMS and then taught for more than thirty years, retiring after her last years at Westport Elementary. Maribeth was a member of the First Baptist Church of Springfield where she met her husband, Byrd D. Blalock, who preceded her in death in 1987. Maribeth loved to play the piano and laugh at a good story. She was loved by all for her giving, gracious spirit. She is survived by three children ; A.B. Blalock of Allen, TX, Robert Blalock of Denver, CO and Maella Blalock of Monett, MO, a niece; Beth Anne Baker of Steilacoom, WA and a step-daughter; Adelia Mae Rippetoe of West Covina, CA. Maribeth was the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren and one great-grandaughter. Visitation will be Friday, October 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Springfield. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Springfield National Cemetery.