Published on May 4, 2025 6:39 pm
Last Updated on May 4, 2025 6:40 pm
Mary Elizabeth Renshaw, a cherished matriarch, passed away at the age of 92 on April 30, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, Illinois.
Born on April 2, 1933, in Findlay, she was the daughter of Otto and Mary (Harbert) Garrett. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith. Mary’s journey began in the heart of Illinois, where she grew up surrounded by the warmth of a close-knit family. She made history as part of the first graduating class of 1951 after the merger of Stewardson and Strasburg High Schools. On June 29, 1952, Mary married Richard William “Dickie Bill” Renshaw, their marriage was a beautiful partnership that spanned an incredible 71 years, during which they built a legacy of love and commitment. Mary’s life was characterized by her unwavering dedication to her family.
She is survived by her children, Mary (Eric) Bridges of Latona, Grace Pike of Effingham, and Richard (Kathryn) Renshaw of Cumberland, Maine. She was a guiding light in the lives of her seven grandchildren, Thad Bridges, Justin Bridges, Adam Pike, Chelsea Taylor, Ashley Noble, Emme Renshaw, and Hunter Renshaw, and her ten great-grandchildren, Blaine, Colton, Brittany, Bellamy, Austin, Faith, Lane, Callie, Landen, and Scarlett, who will forever cherish her memory.
Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, her son-in-law Robert Pike, and her siblings, Herman Garrett, Jane Ellison, Marjorie Renshaw, Shirley Jenkins, and Robert Garrett.
Mary was a longtime member of the Beecher City Church of Christ. Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she lived it out through her actions and kindness towards others. Mary’s interests and hobbies were as diverse as they were passionate. She found joy in reading, camping, and riding bicycles. Her greatest pleasure, however, was found in the time she spent with her family, from attending her grandchildren’s sporting events to embracing the company of neighborhood children. Mary’s heart was truly in her home, and she loved nothing more than being surrounded by the laughter and love of her family.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Beecher City Church of Christ. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Stewardson Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family for memorial to be determined at a later time and may be mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.