Georgia Shirley and her husband Jesse Williams.

Mary met "the love of her life" Jesse Williams and they have been inseparable for the last 53 years. Mary " better known as Lou" by her husband together raised 3 strong beautiful women; Gail (Leslie) Walker (deceased), Sharon L. Cooper and Cathy (Larry )Gipson. The family of three was expanded by 7 grandchildrenChristal, Leslie, Lance, Kyle Walker, Leah Cooper, Victoria and Steven Gipson; and 5 great grandchildren - Israel (Brandon) Kincy, Naomi Davis, Xaiden, Xavier Walker and Luka Gipson. Mary enjoyed nothing more than her family and they were a priority in her life. She was so close to all of them each was convinced they were

secretly her favorite. If asked who was her favorite she would swear she didn't have a favorite! She loved us all the same. Mary cherished spending time with her family, and friends. Afresh bouquet of flowers was her other passion. Mary enjoyed a nice bouquet of red roses, Easter lilies and Poinsettias. We worked diligently to support this passion. She was blessed with the opportunity to have the family celebrate her 90th birthday (where she was presented with nearly 100 roses) and spent Thanksgiving with the family this year. Mary's life was enhanced by constant interactions with her cousins, neices and nephews. Mary, also enjoyed speaking with her friends daily. She filled her days with ongoing conversations with a childhood friend Ezra Carruthers and Rose Crosby. She was frequently greeted while out and about by our childhood friends and classmates that remembered her kindness . Mary was loved by many and will be missed by all.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Monday December 22, 2025

Blackburn Funeral Home

1500 Black rd

Joliet, IL 60435

VISITATION: 9-10am

FUNERAL: 10am

INTERMENT: Elmhurst Cemetery