MaryElla Cahill (nee Campbell)

Cahill, MaryElla (nee Campbell), born Dec 2, 1924 passed away peacefully at 1:24 am, Monday, May 6 2013, embracing the promise of her faith.

Loving mother of Bonnie Jean (Cahill) Holmes. Beloved grandmother of Victoria, Becca (Sandy), Rick(Tracy) and Thomas. Dear great-grandmother to Ellen, Kaitlin, Gabby and Max.

A strong, independent and fiery red head, MaryElla forged paths in life that few women of her generation thought possible. Single parent, sole bread winner and care giver to both parents, MaryElla lived with passion and determination. A self-taught insurance underwriter, she owned her own home and enjoyed a career in an industry she adored?all before 1960.

MaryElla?s fondest memories have all included her family: Family celebrations with her beloved late Aunt Mabel (Conway) Brawley, dear Cousin Rae Ann Powers and her children; Summer vacations with her late brother Harry, his late wife Helen, her late niece Helen Louise (late Claire) Anderzak, her late nephew Robert (Pat) Campbell and the many grand nieces and nephews in Dearborn, Michigan.

After her family, MaryElla?s joys in life were many. She was an avid reader of mystery novels. She sewed beautifully and made many Christmas, Easter and other special event clothes for her family. MaryElla was also very active in the Order of the Eastern Star, a faith-based charitable organization she loved. She served as Worthy Matron of Benjamin Franklin Chapter #393 in 1966. Her beloved Aunt Mabel served alongside her as Associate Matron that year, making the experience one she treasured.

On her premature retirement due to blindness at the age of 50, MaryElla shouldered the adversity as she always did-she met it head on. She turned to caring for the home and children of her only child, Bonnie Jean. Her ?second career? as babysitter, room Grandmother and guide was a blessing to the lives of those closest to her. A child of the depression, MaryElla instilled the values of close family, discipline and faith in God. She often said that ?God never asks of you more than He is sure you can handle?.

Healthy and active until her struggle with Alzheimers began, MaryElla lived a long and happy life surrounded by family and friends who love her.

Services: Funeral service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Friday, 10:00 a.m. Interment Friedens Cemetery. Following interment a luncheon will be held at her granddaughter Victoria's home. Visitation Thursday 4-8 p.m. Eastern Star service at 7:00 p.m. Friends may sign the family?s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.