Mary Elizabeth Simonson, 82, of Chatham, IL, passed away on January 24, 2025, at her home. Born on March 17, 1942, in Olney, IL, Mary grew up in the warmth of a big family in Newton, IL and embraced life with a loving, caring and joyous outlook.

Mary’s focus had always been her family. Beyond raising her kids, she extended meticulous care for her family and parents in their later years. She graduated from Newton Community High School in 1960, then continued her studies and became a graduate of Lockyear Business College in Evansville, IN. Mary then worked for a few years at the State of IL in the highway division before getting married in 1964 and starting her own family.

One of Mary’s passions in life was using her beautiful singing voice. Her youth was marked by the harmonious blend of her voice with others in the choral groups both in high school and in her cherished church gatherings. She also delighted in singing along to her favorite records and soundtracks.

Mary thoroughly enjoyed her gardens, which were not only an oasis of beauty, but also a sanctuary for the many birds and other wildlife that found refuge amongst the flowers and plants.

True to her nature, Mary’s affection extended to her feline friends, whose companionship she treasured deeply.

Antiquing was more than a pastime for Mary; it was an adventure, a quest for treasures untold. With an eye for the unique and a sense for history, she scoured markets and shops, adding to her collection of memories and her love of all things Victorian.

Mary’s Christmas and birthday gift shopping sprees brought as much joy to her as they did excitement, something her family will continue to remember and laugh about.

The legacy that Mary leaves behind is rich with the affection and esteem of her family: her sons, Kevin (Angela) of Springfield, IL, and Mark (Andi) of Seattle, WA; her adored grandchild, Sam Simonson of Champaign, IL; her loving sister, Ilene (Pat) Adams of Heltonville, IN; and her cherished brothers, Roger (Carol) of Dundas, IL, Dan (Kay) of Haubstadt, IN, and John (Linda) of Marshall, IL, along with several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Calvin Hamilton James and Geneva Elizabeth Elder James, her brother, David (Gail) James, sister, Carol (Al) Rohr; and the father of her children, Dennis F. Simonson.

As a parishioner of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Mary’s faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life’s many seasons with grace and humility.

Visitation: 10:00 am – 11:30 am, Friday, January 31, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church - Chatham.

Funeral Mass: 11:30 am, Friday, January 31, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church – Chatham with Rev. Joseph Molloy officiating.

Graveside Service: 11:00 am, Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Newton, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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