STEELEVILLE – Mary Clifton Ware Taylor, 80, of Steeleville, passed away at the Randolph County Care Center at 9:35 P.M., Sunday, December 20, 2020.

May was born at home in Ovett, MS, on August 11, 1940, to David Clifton Ware and Lucile Nicholson Ware.  She married James Arthur Taylor on June 26 ^th , 1961, at the North Beach Baptist Church in Corpus Christi, Texas.  She was a faithful member and Church Clerk at the Steeleville Baptist Church.

Mary began her college studies at Del Mar Junior College in Corpus Christi, then moved on to the Texas Women's University.  After her marriage and the move to Illinois, she transferred to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, where she graduated in 1963 with her bachelor's degree in education.  Over the years she substituted at Trico, Steeleville, and Chester school districts.  Her last position was at Chester Elementary, where she was an aide in the Special Education class, which brought her much joy to see these students succeed.  Mary enjoyed reading, sewing, traveling, and camping with her family.

Mary is survived by her Husband James A. Taylor of Steeleville; one Daughter, Lucile Elaine Eaton (Jeff) of Steeleville, one Granddaughter, Alyssa Anne Stolze (Alan) and one Great Grandson, Adler James Stolze, all of Victorville, CA.   One Brother, Terry Frank Ware (Sherry) of Iola, TX, Niece Kathyrn Ann Ware and Aidyn of Colorado, one Sister, Marsha Elaine Brock (Paul), Nieces, Sarah Smith (Clinton), Weston and Ellie, and Stacey Lynn Brock, Nephew, David Brock (Arial), Kane, and Nash, all of DuQuoin, IL.  One Aunt, Frances (Freddie) Strickland of Ellisville, MS.

Mary was preceded in death by her Maternal and Paternal Grandparents and Parents.

Due to COVID19 pandemic, private graveside services will be held at the Union Cemetery in Sparta, IL, with Pastor Matt Collins officiating.  Memorials may be given to the Steeleville Baptist Building Fund or the Carmi Children's Home and can be mailed to Wilson's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL, 62288. To sign the guestbook visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net.