Mary Jane Williams (Shields) of Lincolnshire, IL, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, at the age of 92. A woman of profound faith and boundless love, Mary's legacy is one of unwavering devotion to her family and a heart that embraced all who knew her.
She was the beloved wife of Bob Williams, with whom she shared a life filled with love and partnership for 73 years. Together, they raised 12 children, who, along with their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, carry forward the values she instilled in them.
Despite the demands of a large family, Mary's warmth and compassion extended beyond her immediate circle. She greeted each day with a smile and optimistic spirit, never complaining, always grateful and ready to share kindness with everyone she met.
Her deep faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and interactions. Mary's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and all who were touched by her gentle presence.
Raised on Chicago's west side by Irish immigrant parents Patrick and Anna, Mary met the love of her life Bob at a local church dance and were married soon afterwards in 1952. Always together, Mary and Bob shared every joy and challenge in life raising Jim (Bonnie) Williams, Kevin (Lisa) Williams, Jeanne (Don) Hunter, Larry (Cassy) Williams, Dan (Karen) Williams, Don (Donna) Williams, Mary Ann Williams, John (Elena) Williams, Lynn Williams, Rick (Mary) Williams, Chuck (Heather) Williams, and Chris Williams. Cherished grandmother of Brian, Mike (Caroline), David (Missy), Grace (Michael), Paul, Emily (Daniel), Hannah, Kate, Jerry (Olivia), Jack, Robert, Annie, Aidan, Hope, Mike, Alex, Duncan, Luke, Colleen, Claire, Joseph, Nick, Connor, Emma, Isabelle, Grant and Calla. Great grandmother of William, Jason and Benjamin. Fond sister of the late Helen, Anne, Father Bill, Father Jim, Rita and Katherine. Cherished aunt, cousin, and friend of many.
Please join us in celebrating Mary's life at her visitation on Tuesday, May 13 from 3-8 pm at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Ave. (2 Blocks South of Dundee Road) Wheeling. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, May 14 at 10:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 724 Elder Lane, Deerfield, IL. All are welcome to attend a luncheon to follow mass, followed by interment at the Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1400 S. Wolf Rd, Hillside, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Salute, Inc. (www.saluteinc.org) or PADS of Lake County (www.padslakecounty.org) would be greatly appreciated. Send a condolence, share a story or post a picture at funerals.pro. For additional assistance please call 847-537-6600.
