Prairie State Wire

Mary Ellen White, aged 82, of Homer Glen, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Born in Joliet and a lifelong resident of Homer Township, Mary Ellen was a dedicated member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lockport. She retired from Lewis University after 25 years of service in the College of Business and the Office of the Registrar. A steadfast White Sox fan, Mary Ellen was known for her optimism. Her passion for cooking and baking extended to all who encountered her, as food was her way of expressing love and hospitality. Family held a special place in Mary Ellen's heart, and she emphasized the importance of family unity in her final days.

Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her husband Larry, daughter Cathy Cozzi, parents Theron and Hildegarde Doyle, brother Jack Doyle, and her feline companion Joseph DiMaggio.

She is survived by her daughter Cheryl Martin of Mundelein, son Brian White of New Lenox, son-in-law Mark Cozzi of Frankfort, and five beloved grandchildren, Kaity Steinman, Nick Cozzi-Krumlauf, Jake Cozzi, Carlee, and Anna White.

The White family extends their gratitude to the medical teams at the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center at Silver Cross Hospital, the Interventional Radiology team at Silver Cross, and the staff at Lightways Hospice for their exceptional care. In lieu of flowers, donations to Lightways Hospice in Mary Ellen’s honor are encouraged.

Cremation was held as per Mary Ellen's wishes. A memorial visitation and chapel service are scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at noon at O’NEIL FUNERAL HOME in Lockport. For more details, contact (815) 838-5010 or visit www.oneilfuneralhome.com.

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