Mary Folowell lost her battle with ovarian cancer on August 11, 2025. She was diagnosed in January and was a fighter until the end. 

Mary was born to Marillyn and Charles Melton on July 18, 1955. She joined older brothers Brian and Barry Melton.  They were raised in Malta, IL where she met and fell in love with her brother Barry’s best friend, Thomas Folowell Jr.  

In the summer of 1973, she graduated high school, turned 18 and married her soul mate. Their relationship was a true love story, and they were married 52 years this summer. November of 1974, they welcomed a daughter, Melissa, and in January 1977 they welcomed their son, Chad. 

Mary was a stay-at-home mom while her kids were young.  She went to work after they were both in school and retired from NIU. Along the way she welcomed a son-in-law, Javier and two grandchildren, Katrina and Thomas as well as a daughter-in-law, Kymm and her children Kayla, Trenton and Alyson.  

She collected bears, enjoyed Hallmark movies and spending time with those she loved. It wasn’t unusual for strangers to strike up a conversation because she had a light that made people feel seen.  

Mary is survived by her husband, Thomas; her brother, Barry (Jan); her daughter, Melissa (Javier); her son, Chad (Kymm), her grandchildren, many in-laws and nieces and nephews.

The Folowell family would like to thank Compassus Hospice (Tara and Cassie), the Malta Fire Department, Anderson Funeral Home, and Barry and Jan.

At her request, the family is having a private service at Malta Cemetery.

Memorials can be directed in her honor in care of Anderson Funeral Home. For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.