Mary E. Winters, age 98, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2017, at Doctor’s Nursing Home in Salem.

   Mary was born February 28, 1919, in Xenia, the daughter of Kirby L. and Laura (Lee) Akes.  She married Beryl Winters on May 23, 1937, in Salem.  He preceded her in death on October 6, 1993.  Mary had worked at the shoe factory and as a waitress at a number of area restaurants over the years.  She and Beryl enjoyed fishing and camping along with their friends.

   Mary is survived by her son: Bob Winters (wife Barbara) of Ohio; 2 grandsons: Paul Peeler (wife Sherry) of Xenia and Michael Winters (wife Wendy) of New York; 3 granddaughters: Kelly Richards (husband Jeff) of Ohio, Beth Prosser (husband Allen) of Clay City, and Sharon Foust (husband Rodney) of North Carolina; 8 great-grandchildren: Paul “Buster” Peeler of Xenia, Kyle Richards of Ohio, Courtney Richards of Ohio, Jill Lomas of Clay City, Misty Lindeman of Clay City, Mandy Sullens of Clay City, Courtney Kidd of North Carolina, and Levi McVey of North Carolina; a sister: Margaret Fleischman of Texas; along with many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a son and daughter-in-law: Paul “Bunk” and Dorothy Peeler; 1 grandson: Steven Peeler; and 8 siblings: Edna Baity, Velma Lenington, Jane Harmon, Laura Griffith, Eddie Akes, Alice Hambough, Norma K. Henson, and Blanche Akes. 

   A graveside service for Mary Winters will be held 10 a.m. Monday, March 13, 2017, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Xenia, with Pastor Bruce Horsley officiating.  Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery.  Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.