'Counting On' Star Mary Duggar’s Cause of Death Revealed

Washington County Coroner Roger W. Morris confirmed to People magazine that Duggar died in an accidental drowning.

According to Morris, the 78-year-old slipped and fell into the pool at her home in Springdale, Arkansas.

RadarOnline.com reported that a dispatch call came in on Sunday afternoon. In the call, the dispatcher said, “Call came in of a possible drowning at [address redacted]..that's [address redacted]. Big house in the back … older woman, 14 echo — unconscious. Medics are responding.”

The Duggar family were the first to break the sad news on social media, writing, “We are so sad to share that Grandma Duggar (Mary) passed away Sunday afternoon, June 9th, 2019. Mary Lester Duggar grew up in Farmington, Arkansas and was married almost 50 years to J.L. (Jimmy Lee) Duggar who preceded her in death. Mary found great joy in sharing her love for Jesus and her own story of how at age 15 she asked Christ to forgive her for her sins. It was at that time she committed the rest of her life to live for Him, a commitment she kept with devotion.”

Along with showing appreciation for the support and prayers, the post also paid tribute to the matriarch, saying, “She is greatly loved and will be missed so very much! She lived a tremendous life as a follower of Christ, a wife, a devoted mother, a loving mother-in-law, and a much-loved grandmother. Proverbs 31:10-31 describes the virtuous woman, indeed she personified these beautiful verses with her life.”

The real estate broker is survived by her children Deanna and Jim Bob, as well as 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren with “several more great-grandchildren on the way.”

Granddaughter Jana Duggar opened up about Mary's final day, writing on Instagram, “On her last morning spent here on earth I drove Grandma to church where she worshiped her Savior. Later that afternoon, she went to meet Him face to face! I'd say that's probably how she would've chosen to finish out the day if she got to pick.”

Granddaughter Jill Dillard shared a photo of Mary, along with the message, “My heart breaks 💔 My grandma died suddenly today! She was an amazing woman of God and such a great example to so many! 🌸 Grandma, you are greatly missed by all who knew you! 💕 She was a feisty, incredible woman who always took the time to talk about Jesus with everyone she knew! I know she was ready to check outta here and get her new body in heaven before the old one started giving her too much trouble!😉 We miss you so much!! 😭💔#maryduggar #rip#grandmaduggar#safeinthearmsofjesus❤.”

Jill's sister Jinger wrote, “Yesterday, this precious woman went home to be with Jesus. Our hearts are broken, yet at peace, knowing that she is now in glory with her Savior. She was the best grandma, counselor, friend, woman of faith, bargain shopping buddy, McDonald's fish sandwich lovin' lady, who was always up for an adventure—whether across town or across the world! She loved the Lord more than anything, and thus shared the hope of Jesus Christ with everyone who crossed her path. She was always there for her family, and was so sacrificial in her service toward us. She will be greatly missed. Thank you for your prayers for our family during this immensely difficult time.”

Anna Duggar, who is married to Mary's grandson Josh, shared, “Great-Grandma Duggar went to heaven today to be with Jesus! 😭 What an awesome woman of faith and such a loving example of God's love. She was a true soul-winner and loved everyone she met, telling them to turn from sin and trust Jesus for salvation! Miss her soooo much and we cherish each moment we were blessed to spend together! Lots of tears being shed here — grateful for all the prayers! 💕😭.”