Obituary Examples for Mother

Mary Elizabeth Johnson
March 12, 1942 – November 28, 2023
Springfield, Illinois

Mary Elizabeth Johnson, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2023, at the age of 81, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Springfield. Born on March 12, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Robert and Margaret Smith, Mary was the second of four children and grew up with a passion for nurturing others—something that defined her entire life.

After graduating from Chicago Central High School in 1960, Mary attended Springfield Community College, where she studied early childhood education. She dedicated over 30 years to teaching preschool at Springfield Early Learning Center, touching the lives of hundreds of children who adored her warmth and kindness. Her greatest joy, however, was her family.

Mary married the love of her life, John Johnson, in 1965, and together they raised three children: Sarah (48), Michael (45), and Jennifer (42). She was a devoted wife, mother, and later a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Emily, Jacob, Lily, Ethan, Noah, Ava, and Mia. Mary’s home was always open—filled with the smell of fresh-baked cookies, laughter, and love. She loved gardening, reading mystery novels, and spending summers at the family cabin in Wisconsin with her grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband John (2018), her parents Robert and Margaret Smith, and her brother Thomas Smith. She is survived by her children Sarah (David) Miller, Michael (Lisa) Johnson, and Jennifer (Mark) Davis; her grandchildren; her sisters Margaret Jones and Susan Taylor; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on December 5, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Springfield Community Church, 123 Main Street, Springfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Springfield Early Learning Center in Mary’s honor.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Springfield Hospice for their compassionate care during Mary’s final days.

Margaret Ann Lee
July 15, 1950 – December 1, 2023
Austin, Texas

Margaret Ann Lee, 73, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2023, surrounded by her family. Born in Austin to James and Betty Ann Lee, Margaret was a loving mother to two children, Jessica and Brian, and a cherished grandmother to four grandchildren.

Margaret dedicated her life to her family and her community, volunteering at Austin Food Bank for over 20 years. She loved cooking, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children Jessica (Mike) Wilson and Brian (Sarah) Lee; grandchildren Emma, Jack, Olivia, and Lucas; and her sister Barbara Jones. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Richard Lee.

A private family service will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Austin Food Bank.

Joan Marie Carter
August 8, 1955 – October 15, 2023
Denver, Colorado

Joan Marie Carter—our vibrant, joyful mom, Grammy, and friend—left this world on October 15, 2023, to continue her adventures in heaven, just as she lived her life: with a smile and a sense of humor. Born in Denver to Frank and Marie Thompson, Joan was a force of nature who loved life fiercely and unapologetically.

Joan was a lifelong artist, known for her colorful paintings and handmade pottery that filled our homes with warmth. She loved hiking in the Rockies, dancing to 70s music, and hosting Sunday dinners for her entire family (her famous chili will forever be legendary). As a mother to three—Amanda, Jason, and Nicole—she taught us to laugh often, love deeply, and never take life too seriously.

Joan’s greatest pride was her role as Grammy to eight grandchildren, who will remember her for endless hugs, bedtime stories, and trips to the zoo. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, her brother Frank Thompson, and her beloved dog, Max. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom, and her parents.

Instead of a traditional funeral, we invite you to join us for a Celebration of Joan’s Life on October 22, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Denver Botanic Gardens. Bring your favorite memory of Joan, a blanket to sit on, and let’s celebrate the amazing woman who made every day brighter.

In Joan’s honor, wear bright colors (she hated black!) and consider donating to the Denver Art Museum’s youth program—something she was passionate about.