Mary Jo Cavanaugh

Mary Jo was born on November 28, 1950, in East Chicago, Indiana, to Elizabeth Schafer and the late Edward B. Cavanaugh. She was a devoted and loving mother to Scott (Laurene) Jackson, Colleen (Michael) Chigaros, Erin Renderman (Matt Deckman), and Brian (Nora) Kowalczyk. She took immense joy in being “Nana” to Kaley, Cole, Taylor, Nicholas, Sarah, Jason, Emma, Liam, and Quinn.

Mary Jo was a beloved sister to Lori Cavanaugh, Jean Cavanaugh, and Patricia McGovern. She was preceded in death by her siblings Thomas (Colleen) Cavanaugh, Patrick (Kathi) Cavanaugh, Kathleen Cavanaugh, and Edward Cavanaugh.

Mary Jo went on to build a life centered around compassion, grace, and generosity. She dedicated her life to caring for others both professionally and personally. As a nurse, she found her true calling in serving patients with kindness and dignity. As the epitome of the word “nurse,” she embodied love in action. That same spirit carried into her personal life, where she often welcomed people into her home and made sure no one ever felt alone.

Known for her soft-spoken nature, class, and elegance, Mary Jo brought comfort to her patients, friends, and family with her gentle presence.

Mary Jo will be remembered for her unwavering concern for others, even in her final moments. She leaves behind her cherished family, dear friends, and all those blessed to have known her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness and care lives on in those she served and loved.

A celebration of Mary Jo’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 3–7 p.m. at Blake Lamb Funeral Home, Oak Lawn, Illinois.