Mary’s life was defined by the things she cherished most: family, friendship, and good food shared around the table. On June 8, 1947, she married her sweetheart, Aaron C. Preece. Together, they built a home with their three children — Pamela (Keith) Dunblazier, Stephen Preece, and Diana (Curtis) Roe. Aaron passed away on March 7, 2016, but their bond and shared stories continued to fill Mary’s heart and mind every day thereafter. Also preceding her in death were her parents, two brothers, Clyde and John Myers; and three sisters, Lida Banko, Pheobe Owens, and Joan Hoff. Survived by her three children named above, and also her brother, Jack Myers; six grandchildren, Scott (Sarah) Dunblazier, Kristen Dunblazier, Travis Miller, Marie Miller, Kellie (Kirkland) Howell, and Brock Bower-Preece; six great-grandchildren, Nolan Dunblazier, Addelynn Miller, Waylon Miller, Warren Miller, Weston Miller, and Walker Miller. Mary spent part of her career as a Librarian at Central and Lincoln Elementary Schools in Canton, later working for the Board of Trades in Peoria before retiring in 1994. Known for her sense of style — Mary was always put together, elegant, and never once seen wearing the same outfit twice, as her grandson liked to joke. She carried herself with quiet grace, but her laughter and charm made her unforgettable. She was also an incredible cook — her pies, especially, were a family treasure. No holiday was complete without one of Grandma’s perfect desserts.
Mary loved golf almost as much as she loved her family, and she was a loyal fan of Tiger Woods. One of her favorite memories was attending the 2004 Masters, where she got to see Tiger play in person — a lifelong dream come true.
Her proudest moments, though, weren’t on a golf course. They were the times spent with her family — her three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren — sharing stories, cheering on their dreams, and watching the generations grow. Nothing made her happier than being surrounded by the people she loved most. Mary had a way of lighting up a room when she walked in. Her smile was warm, her kindness
genuine, and her compassion endless. She gave without expecting anything in return and carried herself with the kind of beauty that came from the inside out.
She leaves behind a legacy of love — one built on the foundation of family and the belief that life’s greatest treasures are found in the moments shared with others. Mary will be deeply missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know her, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. A private burial of ashes will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
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