Mary Elizabeth Wallace

Mary Elizabeth Cooney-Wallace died peacefully on Friday, May 29th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at her side. She was born August 2, 1954 in Kansas City, Kansas the daughter of Robert Cooney and Jean Watson.

Mary worked for Pioneer Life Insurance for many years until its closure in 2002, at which point she then worked for Landmark Printing until her retirement. Mary enjoyed music, dancing, road trips with her girlfriends, and her standing Friday night dinner with friends.

She is survived by her daughter, Caitlin (Juan) Santos of Florida; granddaughters, Emily and Lily Santos; sisters, Christine (Stan) Smallwood of Machesney Park, IL, and Julia (Steve) Lichtenberger of Sun Lakes, AZ; nieces, Michelle (Pat) Dietz, nephews Tim Smallwood of Loves Park, IL, and great niece Jordan Smallwood of Loves Park, IL; nephews, Cody Dietz of Rockford, IL, Tyler Dietz of Rockford, IL, and Nic Smallwood of Machesney Park, IL; and great- great-nephews, Wyatt and Carson Stuen of Loves Park, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Patrick Cooney.

The family would like to thank Lincolnshire Place as well as Sanctuary Hospice for their compassionate care for Mary.

Per Mary’s wishes no formal services will be held. The family may have a Celebration of Life at a later time.