Mary L. Edwards

Mary Youngren Edwards (86) entered peacefully into the arms of her Savior on September 8, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful follower of Christ, Mary lived a life marked by joy, creativity, and a steadfast love for her family.

Born on June 4, 1939, in Rockford, Illinois, to Carl and Rocile (Spect) Youngren, Mary graduated from West High School in the Class of 1957. In 1961, she married the love of her life, Richard (Dick) Edwards. Together they built a beautiful life and raised four children: Jeff, Greg, Mindy, and Todd. Mary’s pride in her family was evident to all who knew her, and her love will continue to shine through the generations she leaves behind.

Her legacy is carried on by her children Jeff (Cyndee) Edwards, Mindy (Tom) Clark, and Todd Edwards; seven beloved grandchildren—Brittany (Scott) Frank, Josh (Emily) Edwards, Kasia Edwards, Braely Edwards, Megan (Jake) Genens, Kirsten (Tyler) Peterson, and Autumn Clark—and eleven great-grandchildren: Addi, Chal, Owen, Jack, Ty, Molly, Nicholas, Ryan, Lincoln, Lacey, and Isla.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Rocile; her husband, Richard (Dick); and her son, Greg Edwards.

Mary began her career as a teacher in the Rockford Public Schools and Rockford Lutheran School. She later shared her gifts of compassion and encouragement in activities and social work at P.A. Peterson and Wesley Willows. In addition, Mary dedicated many years to lay ministry positions, serving youth and families and nurturing the faith of her community. Her final role was as a librarian at Talcott Library, where she surrounded herself with stories and people—two of her greatest joys.

Beyond her work, Mary cherished reading, traveling, and exploring with her family. She and Dick especially enjoyed trips that combined their love of architecture with exciting new destinations, from city tours to family RV adventures. A proud Rockford native, she delighted in sharing the city’s unique lore—right down to its famous sock monkeys—with her children and grandchildren. These moments of discovery and laughter became some of her family’s most treasured memories.

Mary’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She walked closely with God and reflected His love through her kindness, joy, and care for others.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated nursing staff at River Bluff Nursing Home for their tender care over the past two years and the nursing staff of Northern Illinois Hospice.

A service celebrating Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Loves Park, IL. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Willwood Burial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s memory to Grace Lutheran Church.