Mary Ellen Rodgers

Mary Ellen Rodgers, 68, of Peoria, IL, passed away on August 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at her residence. Mary was born on February 2, 1957 to her parents, Mike and Dorothy Prpich in Peoria IL.

Mary was preceded in death by both of her parents, and her infant son, Joshua Rodgers. She is survived by her former husband, Tony (Cheri) Rodgers, her daughter, Crystal (Marcus) Slaughter, son, Tony (Rachel) Rodgers, daughter, Rachel Rodgers; grandchildren, Mikayla (Justin), Marcus, Mike, Olivia, Charlotte, Hannah, Grace, Ellis, a great-granddaughter, Aislynn, siblings, John (Yolanda), Lynn, Paula (Greg), and Patrick; dear friend, Liz Slaughter, special granddaughter, Bre, nieces and nephews, Abby (Rich), Jonathan (Tati), Joshua, Paula Beth (Albert), John (Renee), Peter (Katie), James (Rebekah), and a host of great-nieces and nephews.

Mary was a lifelong Los Angeles Rams fan, spending countless years at training camps and games with her children and grandchildren – NEVER wavering in her support, whether it was a Superbowl winning season or not. Mary returned to college in 2005, graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from OSF College of Nursing in 2007. She began a 13-year career as a registered nurse, specializing in the care of those with mental health and substance abuse disorders. In 2020, Mary was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and began a 5 year journey of showing those around her what it meant to live life to the fullest. The family would like to thank Dr. Brian Cohen for his care, and Dr. Rebecca Byler-Dann for her care and support. Special thanks to Tammy, Bethany, OSF Infusion Center, and Methodist Hospice.

A memorial service will take place for Mary on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel at 11am. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pathway Ministries – Women’s Residential Center.