Mary Ellen Martin, 83, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 9:07 a.m. on March 17, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born June 17, 1940, in Mount Vernon to the late Gilbert and Jeanette Wood. Mary Ellen married Larry Allen Martin on April 29, 1961, and they enjoyed almost 63 years together.
In addition to her loving husband, Mary Ellen is survived by her daughters, Libby (Barry) Jackson of Mount Vernon, Christy Yaxley of Lake City, Florida, and Kathy Jo (Mitch) Lowery of Canton, Michigan. She was a loving Meme to her grandchildren, James Jackson of Saint Louis, Missouri, Megan Schmidt (Ryan) of Mount Vernon, Tyler and Tyson Yaxley of Lake City, Florida, and Dylan and Brooke Lowery of Canton, Michigan; and great-grandsons, Jeremiah and Elijah Schmidt of Mount Vernon. She is also survived by her brother, Jim Wood of Mount Vernon, sister-in-law, Marilyn (Wayne) Wagner of Marion, Illinois, and several nieces and nephews.
Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, mother and father in-law, Owen and Mable Martin, and sister-in-law, Vivian Wood.
She worked as a secretary for many years for Nelson Concrete Culvert Company, A.L. Lee Corporation, and Central Christian Church. She also co-owned and operated a children’s clothing store, The Daisy, in downtown Mount Vernon.
Mary Ellen was unwavering in her devotion to her family and community. She volunteered for various organizations including Central Christian Church Food Pantry, Entertainment Chairperson for Cedarhurst Craft Fair, Jr. Women’s Club, Brownie and Girl Scouts as a troop leader and PTA. Her life was a testament to her selflessness, as she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to nurturing her loved ones and friends with boundless affection and support. She extended her kindness to all, offering a helping hand or meal to those in need. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her impact on the lives she touched will be remembered for years to come. As a wife and mother, Mary Ellen exemplified the true meaning of unconditional love. She and Larry poured their hearts into raising their three girls and their families.
In addition to SSM Hospice, her family wishes to thank the wonderful, compassionate caregivers (Alecia, Pat, Cathlene, Donna and Linda) that provided care for her at home for the past several years.
A Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Memorial Service will begin at 6:00 p.m. with Mr. J. Howard Kraps officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at Green Hills Country Club following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SSM Hospice or Central Christian Church. For further information, please contact Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit www.hugheyfh.com
