Mary Agnes (Martin) Mallon
Mary Agnes (Martin) Mallon
Lisle, IL
Mary Agnes (Mallon) Martin, 96, of Lisle, Illinois, formerly of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at her home. She was born on January 14, 1928, in Davenport, Iowa.
She was the beloved mother of Steve (Maura) Martin, Dan (Becky) Martin, Joe Martin, Tim Martin (departed March 3, 2019), and her only daughter Molly (Bill) Reeser; grandchildren, Jessica, Tyler, Lucy (Kevin), Jaren (Maddie), Ellyn (Mick), Sean (Ciara), Bonnie (Will), and Abby; and her great grandchildren, Ever and Isla, were the source of immense pride and endless happiness.
Alongside her immediate family, Mary shared deep connections with her sister, Patty, and Don (Scoop) Everist, as well as their children Meg (Mike), Peggy, and Doug (Vanessa). These relationships were woven with threads of love that spanned generations.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank L. Martin; parents, Arthur (Gunga) and Agnes Mallon; brother, Bill; sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Al Lethbridge, and their surviving children, Julie, Mark and Amy; and Floyd and Beatrice Martin; brother-in-law, Charles (Buzz) Martin; and sister-in-law Nancy, and their surviving children, Vicky and Tony.
She attended Mount Mercy High School then continued her education at Marycrest, an all-female college in Davenport. Mary, a true social butterfly, and a constant pillar in social affairs, frequently graced the pages of The Ambrosian News. There, she earned a degree in art and advertising, a time where her vibrant personality caught the eye of her future husband, who was attending St. Ambrose all-male college. Their connection deepened as he pursued law studies at the University of Iowa, endearing Mary not only to him but also to her parents, lifelong Hawkeye fans.
Married to Frank L. Martin on June 21, 1952, Mary found love and partnership that illuminated her path. They were married at St. Matthew Church and began family life. He started his law firm of “Martin & McGuire”. Soon Frank’s political life began with his election at age 32 as an Iowa State Representative. She became the consummate politician’s wife. Despite facing loss early in life with Frank’s untimely passing at 33 years old, and welcoming their daughter Molly amidst sorrow, Mary’s resilience shone through. Supported by family and friends, including her spiritual community at St. Matthew, Mary’s spirit remained unbroken.
Her commitment to her faith was unwavering. Daily masses and the nurturing community of St. Matthew Church were her solace and strength. Her love of the Blessed Virgin Mary led her to pilgrimages to Medjugorje, (then Yugoslavia) Bosnia/Herzegovina and Knock, Ireland. Trips of her lifetime. Mary’s spirit was a beacon of light, radiating warmth and compassion to all who crossed her path.
Mary’s artistic talents will endure through her paintings, which will forever adorn the walls of her loved ones, a timeless tribute to her creativity and passion.
While she spent her final years in Lisle surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, a part of her heart always remained in Cedar Rapids. Her contagious smile was always present and brought light to any room. She was loved by all and never met a stranger. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with JOY.
Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., June 15, 2024, followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., at St. Matthew Catholic Church, located at 2310 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. It will be a celebration of a life well-lived, filled with love, joy, and everlasting grace. In honor of Mary’s memory, donations to St. Matthew, are welcomed in lieu of flowers.
Condolences may be sent to Molly Martin Reeser care of Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, 1844 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.
Please share your support and memories with Mary’s family on her Tribute Wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries.