Mary Louise Conrad, born September 30, 1933 – passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
Mary was the sixth of seven children born to Henry and Macy Lewis, living on their family farm in Annapolis, MO. There, she learned the value of hard work and the importance of family, two lessons she would carry with her throughout her life.
Mary fell in love and married Wilford (Bill) Conrad on October 23, 1954. They quickly started their family and had three children, each born 5 years apart.
Her husband, Bill, passed away in 2000 at the age of 75, and while her heart was broken, she picked herself up and rebuilt her life, becoming an inspiration for so many friends and family members. She was always on the go; lunches and dinners with friends new and old, church, and her true passion – volleyball. She played until she was 80 years old, when her body finally wouldn’t let her play anymore.
Mary was the life of the party, and her energy lit up every room – she always had a great sense of humor and a laugh that was contagious. Family and friends meant everything to Mary. She loved playing cards, bowling, softball, watching the Cardinal’s, spending time with her grandchildren and rocking her great grandbabies.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Macy Lewis, her husband, Bill Conrad, her siblings, Aldena (Bob) Kimmell, Neva (Everett) Jackson, Delmar (Opal) Lewis, Frank (Lila) Lewis, Willis (Carol) Lewis.
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She is survived by her three children, Brenda Conrad (John Hritzkowin), Rick (Diane) Conrad, and Steve (Lori) Conrad. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Richard (Carolina) Conrad, Kristen (Kofi) Oyirifi, Kevin Conrad and Alyssa Conrad (Jordan Salinas). She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Arya Conrad, Isaiah, and Naomi Oyirifi. She is further survived by her brother, Lawrence (Ruth) Lewis.
In addition, loving family members Jacob (Sahra) Cooper their children Arrianna, Joe, and Keira. Joshua (Sarah) their children Caden, Kyler, Camden, Micaiah, Shiloh, Madden, and Laken Cooper. Jeremiah (Melody) their children Jackson, Olivia, and Natalie Cooper. Jesse (Madison) Cooper
A visitation will be held at Kutis (South County) Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129, on Wednesday evening, June 7th from 5 to 8. A funeral will be celebrated at 10 am on Thursday, June 8th, with burial at 10:45 am at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to American Cancer Society.
Mary will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on through her family and friends.
One of the greatest ladies I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. I loved everything about her, and as this says, her laugh was contagious. You always saw her with a smile on her face. You will be dearly missed, Aunt Mary.
I have so many wonderful memories of Aunt Mary. Such a beautiful, caring and energetic woman. Her laughter and kindness will stay with me forever. Sending prayers of comfort to my cousins and their families.
Mary was such a joy to know. Her smile and sense of humor always made my day. She showed everyone she came across how being an amazing person is done. It was the biggest honor to care for her at the end of her life, through the good and the not so good. She will always have a place in my heart.
I loved visiting with my friend Mary. On our first visit, she said, “I choose to be happy “. That quote stays with me. I will miss her very much.
Mary knew how to live a life full of genuine joy, and she also knew how to leave this earth with joy, too. Her unwavering faith led her home to her dear Bill and others who had gone before her. She never doubted her great reunion.
When we each think of Mary, we’ll smile, because that was her gift to each of us..
Thanks to her children, Brenda & John, Rick & Diane, and Steve & Lori all who loved her and cared for her when she needed it most.
Mary Lou, as she was known in Annapolis, Mo. and surrounding communities where she grew up. As a first cousin I can tell you at all the Lewis Reunions I ever went to Mary Lou had a smile that was contagious and a laugh that was sure to follow. She was one of a kind that this world needs a lot more of. She will be missed! Rest in peace Mary Lou……