Mary Elizabeth Gist (nee DeLess), 96, died Friday, December 3, 2021, at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Beardstown.

She was born February 8, 1925, in Clayton, the daughter of William and Blanche DeLess.  She married Jack Gist on April 4, 1948, in Clayton. Jack preceded her in death on April 25, 2012. She is also preceded in death by her parents.

  She is survived by two sons, Richard (Tara) Gist of St Louis and William (Kathy) of Southlake, Texas; five grandchildren, Andy (Rachel), Aaron, Alyssa (Nick Lentz), Kyle and Matthew; one great grandchild, Colton; and several nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Western Illinois University with a degree in education.  She dedicated her life to teaching in the Beardstown community at Beardstown High School where she taught English and Speech.  She was actively involved in many of the school’s plays and musicals throughout the years.  After retiring, she volunteered at the Lincoln Courtroom and Museum in Beardstown.  Mary was a member of First United Methodist Church.  She loved playing bridge with her husband and friends and with her longtime bridge club members.  She enjoyed playing piano, golfing and traveling, particularly on cruises with Jack and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, December 13, 2021 at Sager Funeral Home in Beardstown with burial at Beardstown City Cemetery.  Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to Beardstown High School Drama Club or Old Lincoln Courtroom & Museum. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.sagerfuneralhome.com.