Mary Gilbert-Layne

Born July 17, 1945 in Peoria to Fred G. and Dollie Beatrice (Stubblefield) Hering, she married Charles Eugene Gilbert. She later married Charles Taylor “Charlie” Layne. He survives.

Also surviving are one son, Chris (Lena Arthur) Gilbert of Chicago; one daughter, Cori (Eric Meyer) Gilbert of Chicago and one granddaughter Mary adored, Aaliyah Gene Gilbert-Meyer.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Gene Gilbert; her stepfather, James Breaden and one brother, Joseph Breaden.

Mary worked for many years as a photographer with Lifetouch, bringing care, patience, and an artist’s eye to the moments families hoped to preserve. Earlier in her working life, she was employed by United Van Lines.

Mary’s life was marked by a deep love of the arts and a generous spirit in sharing them. Gifted with artistic talent, she blessed others through her creativity and her willingness to give that gift freely. Her interests spanned music, theater, and art, and she especially loved painting, finding joy in color, creativity, and the quiet satisfaction of making something beautiful. Above all, Mary cherished her granddaughter more than anything. She also loved traveling around the United States and the world with Gene Gilbert and her family.

A beloved member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Pekin, Mary will be remembered for her gracious presence, always being well dressed, and for the care she devoted to her work with children. Her commitment to young people and the arts also shone through her service as a past president of the Peoria Community Children’s Theater. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Congregational United Church of Christ in Pekin. Pastor Judy Kennedy will officiate. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church. Private inurnment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to Congregational United Church of Christ, 2200 Willow Street, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com