Mary B. Denning

Mary B, Denning, age 89 of Lockport, IL formerly of Wheaton, IL and Mattoon, IL passed away on November 10, 2024, with her family in Lockport, IL. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938 is in charge of arrangements. Mary was born on October 11, 1935, in Sassafras, MO to the late James Thomas and Rhoda Josephine (Wilds) Boswell. She married Alvie O’Dell Denning on August 7, 1951, in Charleston, MO; he passed away on February 17, 2021. She is survived by four children: Terry D. Denning and wife Vicki of Mattoon, IL; Jack L. Denning and wife Kanda of Sun City West, AZ, Anthony P. Denning of Volo, IL, Mary Alice Amant and Steve Chillson of Lockport, IL; twelve grandchildren, and twelve great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Barbara A. Willoughby; one son-in-law, Reverend Richard S. Willoughby; seven brothers; six sisters; and one grandson, Austin Denning who was the son of Anthony Denning. Mary was a faithful member of the Faith United Pentecostal Church of Joliet, IL. She loved her church and her church family. In her earlier years she served in the choir, as a Sunday School Teacher, and with the Outreach Program. She was a founder and helped initiate the Parent Teacher Association in the Chicago, IL School District in the 1960’s. She enjoyed volunteering her time and abilities at Northwest Hospital in Chicago, IL and donated to numerous charitable organizations including many programs providing help and aid to animals. An extensive world traveler, Mary and her husband, Alvie had the pleasure of touring Europe, England, Germany, the Netherlands, Amsterdam, Holland, France, Austria, Southeast Asia, Singapore and West Malaysia. Throughout her lifetime Mary created beautiful memories with her family and friends whom she loved so dearly. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She will be dearly missed. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual candle in her honor or share a memory with the family.

Tributes

Mary B. Denning

October 11, 1935 - November 10, 2024