Mary Thompson Deaton

Mary Joan Thompson Deaton, 89 of Beardstown, died Saturday, July 15, 2023 at her daughters home surrounded by family.

She was born July 13, 1934, in Beardstown, the daughter of Henry V. and Mae V. Schaeffer Thompson. She married Albert "Al" Deaton on June 6, 1955 in Beardstown and he preceded her in death on September 18, 2010.

She is survived by her daughter Teresa (husband Dan) Prefountain of Rushville; three grandchildren Kate (husband Matthew) Lawson of Rock Island, Daniel Prefountain, and Cami Prefountain both of Rushville; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers John Charles Thompson in infancy and Myron (surviving wife Virginia) Thompson.

Mary graduated from Beardstown High School in the class of 1952 and then from Passavant School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1955. She began her nursing career in Kansas City and Alton while her husband was stationed there. When they moved back to Beardstown, she worked at Schmidt Memorial Hospital until their closing, and then with St. John's in the Cardiac Unit until she retired. After Mary's retirement, she also worked part time for Heritage Health in Beardstown and completed a 61 year nursing career in 2019. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Beardstown. Mary adored her grandchildren and would brag on them any chance she got. She enjoyed cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals, working in her rose garden, and working with her husband in their vegetable garden. Once a month, Mary and her nursing classmates and instructor, would get together and visit. She mentored and helped many people, not only with her knowledge of nursing, but with her caring spirit.

Memorial services will be held at 11 AM Saturday, July 22, 2023 at First United Methodist Church in Beardstown. There will not be a visitation or burial. There will be a meal in the church fellowship hall following Mary's service, for those who are able to attend. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.