Mary Lou McGarry

CHARLESTON – Mary Lou McGarry, of Charleston, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at the Willow Breeze Hospice House of Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.

Mary Lou graduated from Taylorville High School in 1943 and later married Francis W. (Frank) McGarry in Taylorville, IL; he preceded her in death in 1999.  At 98, Mary was the last surviving immediate family member of the Judge John W. Lowry and Clara Fay (Stacy) Lowry family of Taylorville, Illinois.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, one brother, and son-in-law, Clyde Sims, Jr.  She is survived by her daughter, Cheri McGarry (Clyde Jr) Sims, her grandson, Clyde W. (Trey) Sims, III and the family's special friends, Tara Estrada and family; niece, Jenna Phelps (John) Briggs of Taylorville, IL, niece, Molly (Reg) Vollmer of Spokane, WA; and nephews, David and Rick Dewhirst and their families.

Mary Lou was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and speny many years rescuing and rehabilitating animals.  Mary Lou and Frank loved to travel and enjoyed their many trips to Hawaii, but her passion in life was spending as much time as she could supporting her grandson throughout his BMX career and later following his music career.

A private family service is planned for Friday, October 4, 2024.  Arrangements: Caudill-King.  IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, Mary Lou and her family would appreciate a contribution to the Coles County Animal Shelter, an animal shelter of your choice, or the Willow Breeze House.  The family would also like to thank Dr Makkar and the entire staff of 4 West, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center for their exemplary care.