Mary Phelps

Mary S. Phelps, 82, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025 in Byron, Illinois. Mary was born on November
30, 1943 in Savannah, the daughter of Maynard and Imogene Gaul. She attended Lanark High School and went on
to live a life marked by service to her church and deep patriotism.
Mary was deeply committed to supporting veterans and honoring their service. In 1963 she joined the Women’s
Relief Corps, an organization to which she dedicated many years of leadership and service. Mary held the
distinguished titles of State President and National President. As National President, she was honored to lay a wreath
at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Memorial Day in 1994. She dedicated many hours to the nursery and Awana
program at First Baptist Church in Byron.
Mary was also a proud and generous blood donor, donating a total of 12.5 gallons of blood over her lifetime to help
others. She treasured her role as a grandmother and took great pride in her family. She especially enjoyed camping
at Woodhaven Lakes where she made many cherished memories.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents and husbands Frank Hoover and Earl Phelps. She is survived by her
children, Kathy Tarro (Shawn), Keven Hoover (Polly), and Kraig Hoover (Caryn). She was a proud grandmother to
Morgan Hoover (Bill), Kyle Hoover (Kate), Alyssa Redican (Tim), and Andra Hoover, and four great-grandchildren.
A grave side service will be held at a later date at the Lanark Cemetery.

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