Mary Virginia Taylor

Mary Virginia Taylor, 92, of Buffalo, Missouri, formerly of Prairie City, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 28, 2024. She was dearly loved and will be missed by her family who survives her: Daughters Gary and Pam Naylor, Buffalo, MO; Dr. Bruce and Lana Packard, Corrales, NM; and Mark and Melody Herman, Holland, MI and Branson, MO. Also surviving are her grandchildren and great grandchildren who Mary cherished: Brett and Brittney Naylor (Hudson and Emery) Halfway, MO; Sarah Packard, Dallas, TX; and Marie Packard, Des Moines, IA. Mary loved her surviving nephews Scott Dixon, Bloomington, IL; Dan Livermore, Peoria, IL; and Dave Livermore, Galesburg, IL; and her “adopted” son Garry Hager, Galesburg, IL. Her husband Jerry predeceased her in 2017. Mary and Jerry were married in 1948, and were beside each other for over 69 years when Jerry passed away. Jerry proudly boasted that he “robbed the cradle” as Mary was seven years younger. They were blessed to have been able to spend their lives with their true loves. Mary reunited with Jerry just in time to celebrate his 100th birthday this leap year. Jerry and Mary were farmers and raised Purebred Shorthorn Cattle. Jerry judged cattle all over the country of which Mary, and oftentimes friends, would travel with him. Although there weren’t many vacations, the cattle shows provided for fun and entertainment, allowing them to travel and see the likes of Elvis Presley in Baton Rouge, LA; friend and country music entertainer LeRoy VanDyke’s many performances, along with countless other adventures. Mary fit the true definition of a farmer’s wife and could do anything on the farm, oftentimes herding cattle when Jerry was out of town and then fixing the fence, hauling grain to the local elevator, or cooking a feast for those who helped on the farm. Mary’s skills also excelled inside the house. Mary and Jerry’s front door was always open and they were full of hospitality, entertaining often. The smells of fresh baked cookies, cake or pie would greet friends. No one left her house hungry and often wondered why just one more of “Mary’s” bites was a full helping, and left them stuffed! She was a fantastic cook and loved entertaining. Her famous lime sweet pickles or thinly-sliced noodles were favorites, or grilled cinnamon rolls filled bellies on cold winter mornings. Her grandkids especially loved Grandma’s sugar cookies and TV mix. She often said “if I had a nickel for every strawberry or coconut crème pie I’ve made, I’d be a millionaire!” Known for keeping an immaculate house, neighbors commented that her garage was so clean “you could eat off her floors.” Mary’s one requirement no matter how busy they were was to get her hair fixed once a week. Mary also loved to sew and crochet, play bridge, and garden. In her later years, she enjoyed watching birds and made sure her bird feeders were always filled. Mary and Jerry prided themselves with raising their daughters and supporting their activities, including all three daughters graduating from the University of Illinois. She spent countless hours in the audience supporting her family at cattle shows. It got even better when Jerry and Mary relocated to Buffalo, MO in the late 1980s to be closer to Pam and Gary and be involved in Brett’s activities. Brett had many meals at their house where breakfast might consist of at least a pound of bacon and always cream on his cereal! Hard work was the way of life for Mary and Jerry, but they never complained and always had positive attitudes. Because of that attitude, many were attracted to them and they were willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. Taking care of people was their gift and passion . . . true servants. Mary was a sweet, sweet lady with a beautiful smile, and loved by anyone who knew her. Her backrubs and hugs were the best. Mary was a member of the Bushnell United Methodist Church. She was involved in many church and cattle organizations throughout her life. Mary’s life will be celebrated Monday, March 4, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home, Bushnell, IL. Burial will follow at the Bushnell City Cemetery. Memorials can be made to any Methodist Church or local animal shelter of choice.

Mary Virginia Taylor

April 25, 1931 - February 28, 2024