Mary K Saylor

Mary K. Saylor, 72, of Atkinson, IL, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Geneseo, IL. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery. Reverend S. Stephen Engelbrecht will officiate. Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory will be assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Mary K. Saylor Memorial Fund to be distributed amongst local charities.

Mary K. Saylor was born on June 21, 1952, in Geneseo, IL, the daughter of William and Margaret (Lievens) Carmichael. After high school, Mary attended the Patricia Stevens Modeling School. She married Jay Saylor on September 21, 1974, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Atkinson, IL, and they had 3 children together. Mary was a deeply loving mother, a caring sibling, and a devoted wife who created a warm and loving home for her family.

Mary had an infectious laugh and a beautiful smile that could light up any room. She was known for her incredible warmth and kindness, always making others feel welcome and valued. Her home was a gathering place for friends and family. Many will fondly remember Mary and her daughter, Susie, out and about, brightening the days of everyone they encountered. Always ready to chat, whether for a few minutes or a longer conversation, they were a joyful pair whose presence rarely went unnoticed.

For over 40 years, Mary taught CCD at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, touching the lives of countless students. She was thoughtful, kind, and loved by her community. Her faith and commitment to others were evident in everything she did. Mary was also renowned for her legendary scotcheroos, delectable pies, and other homemade treats, all made with love.

Mary was a proud graduate of Atkinson High School, where she made lifelong friends. She enjoyed gathering with friends for shopping trips, lunches, and appointments, always willing to lend a hand or simply offer company on a drive. Mary lovingly cared for several neighborhood children over the years and cherished watching them grow into adults. Her affection for animals, particularly cats and dogs, was also widely known.

Mary had a wonderful sense of humor and loved a good laugh. She cherished card parties (even if cards weren't always played), gardening, and spending quality time with her loved ones. With a camcorder often in-hand, she was an expert at making memories, and her family is especially grateful for the countless moments captured on VHS, preserving the joy and love she shared with them.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Jay, of Atkinson, IL; sons, Jayson (Rachel) of Atkinson, IL, and Nathan (Rachael) of Parker, CO; daughter, Susie Saylor of Atkinson, IL; siblings, Billy (LeAnn) Carmichael of Atkinson, IL, Jill Buysse of Atkinson, IL, Pat Carmichael of Davenport, IA, and Brian Carmichael of Atkinson, IL; grandchildren, Mason Saylor, Drake Saylor, and Mackinzie Gatzemeyer.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William and Margaret Carmichael; sisters, Carol Carmichael and Susie Carmichael.

Mary will always be remembered for her incredible warmth, her unwavering love for family and friends, and the countless ways she made others feel special and important. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and love that will never be forgotten.