Mary Winkler made headlines in 2006 after the tragic death of her husband, Rev. Matthew Winkler. This article answers where does Mary Winkler live now, using reliable updates and recent facts—all written in clear, grade‑6 friendly language. You’ll also learn about her family, health, and what life has been like for her and her three daughters since the event.
Where Does Mary Winkler Live Now?
- She and her girls moved to Smithville, Tennessee, and later relocated to the Knoxville metro area .
- She continues to go by Mary Carol Freeman and keeps a low public profile .
The Journey from Trial to Today
- In March 2006, Mary shot her husband Matthew in Selmer, Tennessee. She fled with her daughters and was found in Alabama
- Initially charged with first-degree murder, she was convicted of voluntary manslaughter in April 2007
- She served 150 days in jail, plus 60 days in a mental health facility,
Custody of Her Daughters
- After her release in 2007, her daughters were living with their paternal grandparents. In August 2008, custody was returned to Mary
Health and Community Support
Mary was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) around 2010, reporting muscle weakness and difficulty walking
Life in Knoxville: A Table of Mary’s Activities
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Residence | Knoxville, Tennessee (since post-2008) |
| Family | Lives with her three daughters |
| Health | Managing MS diagnosed around 2010 |
| Community Involvement | Fundraising for MS, veterans, children’s health, animal welfare |
| Personal Life | Maintains a private lifestyle |
Timeline of Mary Winkler’s Post-Trial Life
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2007 | Released from prison + mental health facility |
| 2008 | Gained full custody of daughters and moved to Smithville |
| ~2010 | Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis |
| Post‑2010 | Active in fundraising and community work in Tennessee |
| Present | Resides near Knoxville with daughters under the name Mary C. Freeman |
Conclusion
Where does Mary Winkler live now? Today, she resides in the Knoxville area, Tennessee, under the name Mary Carol Freeman. She’s focused on building a stable, quiet life with her daughters, working through her MS diagnosis and giving back to her community.
Her life has undergone many changes since 2006—from court proceedings and custody battles to health struggles and advocacy. The story continues, not in the spotlight of media, but in the day-to-day in her hometown, with her daughters and in support of others living with MS and related causes.
FAQs
Where does Mary Winkler live now?
Mary Winkler, now Mary Carol Freeman, lives near Knoxville, Tennessee, with her three daughters.
What is Mary Winkler doing today in Tennessee?
She’s involved in fundraising for MS, veterans, children’s health, and animal welfare, often participating in marathons despite her MS diagnosis.
How did Mary Winkler regain custody of her children?
Custody was returned to Mary in August 2008, after a custody battle following her 2007 trial.
Why did Mary Winkler change her name?
She uses her birth name, Mary Carol Freeman, after her trial, likely as a way to protect her privacy.
Does Mary Winkler still face legal or public issues?
No significant legal or public controversies have arisen since she was released and regained custody in 2008. She leads a private life focused on family and community causes.