Mary Alice Cooler

Mary Alice was born on June 24, 1935, in Springfield, the daughter of Nicholas and Alice Toulme Geibel. She married John “Jack” Gibson Cooler on August 15, 1959, in Springfield; he preceded her in death on January 15, 2014.

Mary Alice was a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University in elementary education and went on to earn her master’s degree in education from the University of Illinois. She retired from district 186 after teaching 2nd grade for many years. Mary Alice was a long-time member of St. Joseph Parish. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren, and her cocker spaniels.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her daughters, Alice (John Tadla) Cooler of New Lenox, IL and Joelyn (Mark) Taylor of Springfield; three grandchildren, John, Brett, and Ryan Taylor, all of Springfield; and one brother, Nicholas Geibel of Springfield.

Private family ceremonies were held.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.