Mary G. Simons

Mary G. Simons 90, of Sycamore passed away Monday May 26, 2025, at DeKalb County Rehab and Nursing Center in DeKalb. She was born May 5, 1935, in Monessen, PA and was the daughter of Regis and Florence (Gush) Byrne.

Mary graduated from Granite City High School in 1953, beginning a life marked by dedication, service, and deep love for her family and community. On October 18, 1958, she married the love of her life, Francis Joseph "Joe" Simons. Their marriage was filled with devotion, partnership, and shared purpose until his passing on July 29, 2005. His memory remained a cherished part of her life every day thereafter.

Mary served with great pride and integrity as the Chief Deputy Recorder of DeKalb County and as the DeKalb Township Clerk for 15 years, always committed to making a difference in the lives of those around her.

She was deeply involved in the community she loved. A faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Sycamore, Mary also gave her time and talents to many local organizations, including the DeKalb Elks 765, the DeKalb Republican Party, and the Illinois Township Clerks Association. She was a longtime member of the DeKalb Public Hospital Auxiliary and played an instrumental role on the committee that helped plan and build the first Kishwaukee Hospital — a lasting legacy of her dedication to others.

Creative and nurturing, Mary found great joy in painting, sewing, and most of all, spending precious time with her family. Her warmth, strength, and quiet acts of kindness touched countless lives. She will be remembered always for her generous spirit, unwavering faith, and the love she so freely gave.

Survivors include children; Lynne Kunde of DeKalb, grandchildren; RJ Kunde (Hui Wang), Jessica Kunde (Marcelo Cabette), and Julie Kunde and great grandson Caio Cabette. Marijo Schwartz of Sycamore, grandchildren; Jeffrey Schwartz and Maegan Schwartz. Stephanie Simons of Sycamore, grandchild Kiley McKee, and Francis Joseph Simons II of Phillips, WI. Sister-in-law; Carol Hawkins Byrne and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Francis Joseph "Joe", brother Thomas Byrne, and sister Betty Shevcik.

Celebration of life will be held on July 19, 2025, at the DeKalb Elks Lodge 209 south Annie Glidden Road DeKalb from 2:00PM till 5:00PM. Private burial will be held July 19, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in DeKalb. Memorials can be made to the family to be established at a later date. Cremation rites and arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.