She was born on July 31, 1928 in Forest City to John Floyd and Lillie (Langston) Whitaker. She married Eldon E. Clinebell on November 27, 1948, in Manito. He died April 5, 2019, in Pekin. She also was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Randy Clinebell on December 20, 2020; three brothers and three sisters.
Surviving are one daughter, Joy (Steve) Starman of Pekin; four grandchildren, Amy Starman of Hanahan, South Carolina, Melissa (Corey) Pearson of Manito, Matthew (Liz) Starman of Inverness and Michelle (Kevin) Neill of Pekin; six great-grandchildren, Kylie (Paul) Ruder, Jarrett Pearson, both of Manito, Jayden Neill of Pekin, Olivia Starman, Quentin Starman, both of Inverness and Colin Neill of Pekin; one great-great-granddaughter, Raya Ruder and one brother Dwight (Jacque) Whitaker of Topeka.
Mary, with her husband and their young daughter, moved from Forest City to Pekin in July of 1952 and began building a new house. They joined Grace United Methodist Church and attended Sunday school with the Tri-M class.
Mary was a stay-at-home mom who worked tirelessly in caring for her family and her home. She enjoyed her many square-dancing friends and always enjoyed a bit of quiet time in her garden. She enjoyed the numerous travel trailer sight-seeing trips across the United States and Canada, generally accompanied by family and/or good friends. Mary was known for her love of fresh produce (especially tomatoes) and Schwan’s ice cream. She was happiest celebrating special family holidays, birthdays, and spending time with loved ones at reunions.
Her funeral will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, December 7, 2023 at Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin. Pastor Eric N. Swanson will officiate. Visitation will be one hour before the funeral at the church. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Home and Crematory in Pekin.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 601 N. 4th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or to The Salvation Army, 243 Derby St, Pekin IL 61554.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com
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