Mary Jewell ~ Goreville July 19, 1951 - August 10, 2023

On August 10, 2023, Mary Jewell of Goreville, IL passed away at the young age of 72. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to many. Those who knew our mother would tell you she was an angel here on earth and had the kindest heart & soul you would ever meet. Her door was always open and over the years let many friends and family stay with her until they were able to get back on their feet.

Mary Lou Rathbun was born on July 19, 1951 in Peoria, Illinois to Kenneth & Rita (Curley) Rathbun.

On May 8, 1975 after a brief courtship, she married David Allen Leach Sr., with whom they had 3 children. She loved her children and grandchildren more than life itself and enjoyed doing for them every chance she could. They parted ways in 1995 after 20 years of marriage. She went on to marry Roger Jewell on July 8, 1998. They shared 17 wonderful years of marriage together. He proceeded her in death on July 2, 2015. She loved going to Current River, tending to her flowers, mowing her lawn, and spending the summers in her swimming pool.

Surviving Mary are her children, Lora Leach of Goreville, IL, David Leach Jr (Christina Parker) of Marion, IL, and Leslie (toots) & Ricky Lantrip of Marion, Illinois. Mother- in- law Jean Leach of Goreville, Grandsons, Cody Reed of Goreville, Tyler Reed of Carbondale, IL and Zachary Orr of Harrisburg. Great-granddaughter Sophia and Carly Reed of Crab Orchard, IL. Brothers Mike (Nancy) Rathbun and Bill (Deb) Rathbun and Sister Judy (Cindy) Boyd.

Mary is proceeded in death by her parents, grandparents, ex-husband and father of her children, David and late husband Roger, father-in-law Donald Leach, and brothers Anthony (Tony) Rathbun and Tommy Rathbun.

Per our mother’s wishes, she was cremated and no services will be held. She always told us, “When I pass, I don’t want you crying or mourning over me. I would rather you remember all the good times and memories that we made over the years together.” And we made a promise to her to do just that.

Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois entrusted with arrangements.