Mary Crigler's Obituary
Mary M. Crigler was born in De Moines, Iowa, on April 6, 1926. She was the proud daughter of the late Major A and Majorie D. Coleman, and the oldest of three children, sister Beverlee Battle (deceased) and younger brother Major Coleman Jr. She grew up during a time when strong community bonds and faith carried families through hardship impacted by the Great Depression teaching lessons of resilience and perseverance. She was educated in the Boonville area and excelled in school. She completed her education at Sumner High School in Boonville, MO where she participated in many school activities, but her favorite was Basketball. She attended St. Matthew A.M.E. Church in Boonville where along with her mother was a tireless worker in many church affairs. She moved from Boonville, MO to Chicago where she worked numerous jobs as she sustained her independence. Mary loved social outings and attended many parties. During this era, Lloyd her oldest child was born (November 18, 1947). She met and married her soul mate Wayman C. Crigler and were united in holy matrimony on January 4, 1950. To this union three children were born: Beatrice (1952), and twins Rodney and Ronald (1953). Together they worked on various entrepreneurial projects, restaurants and real estate. Mary raises her family and instills values of love, faith, and education. She loved taking care of her family. One of her favorite past times was grocery shopping. She did not mind going to numerous stores to find the “best bargains.” She witnessed and supported movements, teaching the importance of standing for what’s right. Mary and Clifford bought their first home and moved from 1051 E 47th Street to 613 E. 91st Place in Chicago. They sold their first home and bought a three flat building where she lived until her passing. Mary continues nurturing her family, strengthening traditions, and becoming a matriarch to many. Mary loved family. Above all the Crigler’s loved to entertain in their home. There are many fond memories of countless gatherings of family and friends for holiday dinners and backyard BBQ’s. Celebrating Life through Family reunions, birthdays, and milestones became cherished moments of joy. Everyone who attended knew they would have a good time. As she became a beloved elder, she offered wisdom, guidance, and love to old and new generations of family, church, and the wider community. Mary’s legacy of faith, love, and family remains constant. She continues to be the heart of her loved ones, witnessing the birth of new generations. Mary’s impact deepens as she becomes a living bridge between generations which is a testament to her strength & grace. She celebrated her 98th birthday, surrounded by love and gratitude, family and friends. March 8, 2025 – Mary M. Crigler completes her remarkable journey, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and resilience. Her life continues to inspire all who had the honor of knowing her. Centuries of Strength, Love & Faith Through all these historical events, Mary M. Crigler remained a source of wisdom, love, and stability for those around her. She witnessed and adapted to a changing world while always holding onto the values that made her the beloved matriarch of her family. Mary was the epitome of resilience and faith. She overcame many health challenges in her later years, and she would proclaim how good God has been to her through every battle she won. She was a faithful reader of her Bible and the Daily Word. You can find countless trails of scriptures and prayers recorded by her in journals, bibles, and on small pieces of paper tucked away in many places around her home. She loved to share the many conversations she would have with God and the “agreements” they would make. Throughout her life, Mary was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, a nurturing mother to her children, and a loyal friend to many. She found immense joy in simple pleasures, whether it was tending to her garden, cooking meals for her loved ones, or sharing laughter with friends over a cup of tea. She enjoyed doing puzzles, traveling, bowling, trips to the casino, and scratching off lottery tickets. Mary was a diehard Chicago Bulls fan; rarely ever missing a game. Her legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Mary is survived by her loving family: Brother Major Coleman (Tanya), Cousin Martha. Children: Beatrice (Dennis), Rodney (Faye), Ronald (Frances). Grandchildren: Lloyd Jr, April, Jelani, Tanisha, Amber, Coran, Michael, Heather, Chantel. Great-Grandchildren: Zion, Dylan, Tanika, Nyla, Morgan, twins Reign and Jordan, Jaleel, Gabriel, Christopher, Jasmine, Triston. Nieces: Edith, Bonita, Ann, Danielle. Nephews: Milton Jr. and Khalid a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory. As we bid farewell to Mary, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Mary Madgelene Crigler 98 years 11 months 2 days A LIFE WELL LIVED!!!
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