Mary Jean Emery

Mary Jean Emery, of Mt. Carroll, IL passed away on March 26, 2024 at Allure of Mt. Carroll. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3, at Mt. Carroll United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place Tuesday, April 2, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Law Jones Funeral Home, in Mt. Carroll, as well as one hour prior to Wednesday’s service, at the church. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Mary Jean was born in Mt. Carroll on May 9, 1928. Her parents were Eugene and Fern (King) Williamson. She graduated from Mt. Carroll High School in 1946. Mary Jean worked in many secretarial positions and was the bookkeeper for the Mt. Carroll Schools until her retirement. She was also a dental assistant for Dr. George Beacom.

Mary Jean married Kenneth Emery on November 20, 1949. They were married for 62 years. Kenneth passed away in 2012. They had one daughter, Debora.

Mary Jean was an active member of the Mt. Carroll United Methodist Church all of her life. She served on many committees. She enjoyed her church work and the people that surrounded her. She was a member of the Esther Circle. Mary Jean also belonged to PEO Chapter GA.

Mary Jean loved to play cards, especially bridge, and Mexican Train Dominoes. Time was never spent around a table without playing cards or a board game. She always had a smile when playing with her grandchildren. Over the years she liked to do ceramics, crochet, knit and play golf.

Mary Jean was director for the Carroll County Help Center (Thrift Store) for many years. She really enjoyed being with the ladies on Wednesday, and helping those who needed her. She always had a kind word for everyone and was the best listener. The more she could do for someone whether it was family, a friend or a stranger the happier she was. She always found the positive in any situation and her laugh was contagious. She devoted her life to her family and helping others. Mary Jean loved spending time with family and friends. She was truly one of God’s angels on earth.

Mary Jean will be greatly missed by her daughter, Deb (Scott) Gallentine; granddaughter, Jennifer (James) Haas; grandson, Drew Gallentine (Kelli); and great-grandchildren; Devon, Kendyll, Bradyn, Harper and Jace.

Mary Jean was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sister, Virginia (Joseph) Suess.

Memorials may be given to the Mt. Carroll United Methodist Church in Mary Jean’s name.