Mary A. Thornton

She was born on April 28, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Ira and Dorothea Johnson. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Thornton Jr, her brothers, Jim Johnson, Robert Johnson, and her sister-in law, Darlene Johnson.

She is survived by her sons, Rich Cowan (Rene) of Surprise, Arizona, and Mike Cowan (Lori) of Le Claire, Iowa; her cherished grandchildren, Haley Cross (Josh) of Moscow Mills, Missouri, and Eric Cowan (Sydney) of Hazelwood, Missouri, her nieces and nephews, Doug Johnson (Patricia), Tamra Holland, Nancy (Chris) Mueller, Craig Johnson. She is also survived by her extended family, Eric and Mollie Devenbaugh, and their children, Landon, Brody and Kolten.

Mary found great joy in being involved with youth bowling leagues, including the Junior Archway Tournaments, where she dedicated her time supporting young bowlers. In recognition of her passion and dedication to the sport, she was inducted into the St. Louis USBC Hall of Fame in 2018. She also enjoyed golfing with friends through Wetterau and spending time playing in Pinochle leagues and online card rooms.

Mary will be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, and the many friendships she built throughout her life.

Memorial donations can be made in Mary’s name to the Florissant Valley Presbyterian Church.

A visitation will be held for Mary on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Alexander White Mullen Funeral Home, 11101 St. Charles Rock Rd, St. Ann, MO 63074. A funeral service will be held at the same location on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 12:00 pm. Burial will immediately follow service at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery.