Mary Martha Messmore's Obituary
Mary Martha Messmore, 84 of Decatur died in her home surrounded by her loving family on Friday, August 18, 2006. Mary was born in Tuscola, IL. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur. Mrs. Messmore was a graduate of Millikin University. She was a retired teacher, having taught Title I reading at several Decatur schools.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at Moran & Goebel Funeral Home, 2801 N. Monroe Street, Decatur, IL from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. A family memorials service will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Thursday August 24, 2006. Memorial donations may be made to the Rock Springs Conservation Area, c/o Macon County Conservation District, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL 62521.
Mrs. Messmore volunteered for over 24 years at the Rock Springs Center for Environmental Discovery in several capacities. Mrs. Messmore also gave her time to the DMH Auxiliary as surgery waiting room volunteer. She played the dulcimer and autoharp for over 20 years as a member of the 1860's period musical group, The Skiffles. She was also active in the Macon Co., U of I Extension.
Mary, affectionately known as Nina, loved her life as the center of a large family, volunteering, playing bridge, antiquing and enjoyed a good Manhattan.
Her six children, Sue Hurd of Pekin, IL; Jeff Messmore of Fredericksburg, VA; Tim Messmore of Decatur; Ann Lercher of Decatur; Jim Messmore of Wheaton, IL; and Kirk Messmore of Decatur survive Mrs. Messmore. She is also survived by her twelve grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband Bill and her grandson, Little John.
The family of Mary M. Messmore is being served by Moran & Goebel Funeral Home, 2801 N. Monroe Street. Send Condolences to the Messmore family and view the on-line obituary at www.moranandgoebel.com.
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