Mary Ellen was born February 7, 1941, the second daughter of W. Franklin and Doris Cox George. She was Salutatorian at Farmington High School, graduation class of 1959, and then earned an Associate’s Degree at Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois.
Her career path began as an executive assistant at the Caterpillar Tractor Company, Peoria, IL. A co-worker, Teri John, introduced Mary Ellen to her father, Austin Davis John. Mary Ellen and Austin were married on October 14, 1983, made Columbia their home, and celebrated 30 happy years before Austin passed away in 2014.
The young Mrs. John was employed by the Peckham & Wright Architectural Firm of Columbia, but was later hired as the executive assistant to Mr. Bo Fraser, and secretary to the Board of Directors, Boone County National Bank [now Central Bank] of Columbia MO. Bo recently commented that Mary Ellen was his first hire after beginning his role as the bank’s CEO; and, 22 years later, they both retired on the same day.
She is survived by family members: Brothers, James George [Jan] , Mapleton IL, Paul George [Sherry], Port Orange, FL; Nieces: Lauren Malmberg, Elmwood, IL, Kim Benko, Fort Worth, TX, Kathy Werner, Fort Worth, TX; Nephews: Kent George, Houston, TX, Kevin George, Peoria, IL, Scott Malmberg , Elmwood, IL, Christopher George, Pekin, IL, and Douglas George, Galesburg, IL; Daughter Teresa John, Columbia, MO, Son Michael John, Tampa FL; Grandchildren: Anna and Nicholas Yannessa, Tabernacle NJ, Trevor John, Langhorne Manor PA.
She was predeceased by both parents, and a sister, Sally Malmberg [Tom].
Friends and family will remember Mary Ellen for her unique fashion sense and style and her quick wit. She was an avid knitter, and a faithful and active member of her church family.
She is in the care of the Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia MO. Services to honor her well lived life will be Thursday, April 4: visitation by friends and family at 10:00 am, memorial service at 11:00 am, followed by the burial ceremony when she will be laid to rest beside her loving husband, Austin.
Her friends and family would like to express their gratitude for the kindness and care given by so many healthcare providers and staff over time and especially in her final hours.
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