Mary Claire Lynn, 98, died peacefully on Sunday, August 1, 2021, at her home in rural Stonington. She was born on July 16, 1923, the daughter of Leslie and Louie (Davidson) Gorden. She married Joe Lynn on May 6, 1944, in Stonington, and they were happily married for over 66 years until his death on August 26, 2010.

Mary graduated high school, and later from Brown’s Business College, but rather preferred her life as a farmer’s wife and homemaker raising her three daughters. She was an active long-time member of Old Stonington Baptist Church where she played piano and taught Sunday School as well as Junior Church. She volunteered her time helping with the Rural Rustlers 4-H Club, the American Cancer Drive, and as the Chair for UNICEF Fund Drive for many years, all in Stonington. Mary truly enjoyed baking pies, cooking, and canning, and was known especially for her lime green pickles. Her family enjoyed the yearly tradition of freezing sweet corn with her. She loved her time gardening and working her flower beds. Mary was known for her patient, charitable heart and she will be dearly missed.

Mary is survived by her daughters: Mary Alice (John) Bonsoe of Metamora, and Judy (Wayne) Swigert of Taylorville; grandchildren: Keri (Matt) Lee, Tim (Lisa) Bonsoe, Ashley (Jesse) Walker, Stephanie (Kirk) Kendle; great grandchildren: Allie Bonsoe, Evan Bonsoe, Cecelia Lee, Vivian Lee, Brynn Walker, Coralie Walker, Adalise Kendle, and Gracelyn Kendle; one brother: Marvin (Esther) Gorden of Moweaqua; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Mary was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Barbara Jo Lynn, and one brother, Kenneth Gorden.

The funeral service for Mary will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 7, 2021, at Old Stonington Baptist Church, with Pastor Scott Parks officiating. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in the Old Stonington Cemetery. Memorials may be made to: Old Stonington Baptist Church or Old Stonington Cemetery.  CDC health guidelines will be strictly followed, and the use of masks is REQUIRED for services inside the church. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is handling arrangements. Memories of Mary, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.