Marie L. “Lala” Dooley, 94, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Born on January 26, 1931 in St. Louis to Mary and Paul Hejna, Marie was a loving wife and mother, lifelong learner and devoted educator. She was the second youngest of seven siblings and part of a large extended family. After marrying and having six children of her own, Marie began her college journey in her late 30s, earning a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of St. Louis Missouri. She went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Webster University in her 60’s all while teaching full time. She dedicated over two decades to teaching elementary school students in the public school system, leaving a lasting impact on countless young lives.
Marie was married to Thomas J. Dooley for 72 years and was the proud mother of Mary Ella Jones, Patricia Elias, Dr. Thomas W. Dooley (Elisa Cabot Dooley), Mark Dooley, Linda Dooley, and Michael Dooley (Laura Revenko). She was also a cherished grandmother to Erin Jones, Drew Monaghan, Claire Small, Sara Elias Macellaio, Steve Elias, Amanda Dooley, Olivia Dooley, and Hillary Dooley, as well as great grandmother to thirteen great grandchildren.
Her passions extended beyond the classroom. Marie found joy in nature, traveling, cooking, and expressing her creativity through arts and crafts. Her values were deeply rooted in her faith and she worshipped with her family at both St. Ferdinand Church and St. Ann Church.
A wake will be held on Friday, July 4th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kutis Funeral Home in Affton, located at 10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis, MO 63123. A Funeral Mass will follow on Saturday, July 5th at 10:00 a.m. at Epiphany of Our Lord Catholic Church, 6596 Smiley Ave., St. Louis, MO 63139, the same church where Marie and her husband Thomas were married in 1952. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery.
Marie will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, unwavering dedication to education, and the warmth she brought to those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
Dear family,
Very sad to hear of Aunt LaLa’s passing. She was always was so kind to me and my family. I know she loved teaching. She had me and my daughter bring guineapigs into her class to do a show and tell. The last time we saw her, she and Uncle Tom were ushering at The Touhill and had invited myself, my husband and our daughter to see a performance. They were always such a blessing. Hope all of you are well.
Much love ,
Your cousin Kathy