Marilyn Ann "Mona" Pavey

Marilyn Ann "Mona" Pavey, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the age of 93, in La Porte, Indiana.

Born on July 18, 1931, in Dyer, Indiana, to the late Anthony and Angela (Keilman) Schutz, Mona was a lifelong resident of La Porte, Indiana, a cherished wife, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a pillar of her community.

Mona's journey through life was one marked by devotion and joy. On Jan. 31, 1953, she married the love of her life, Dallas E. "Gene" Pavey, and together they built a family grounded in faith and warmth. Their union was blessed with seven children, Laurie (Mark) Strojny, Vickie (John) Partain, Paula (Chris) Heagy, Terrence Pavey, Robert (Roxy) Pavey, Thomas (Stacey) Pavey and Michael (Julie) Pavey, all of whom inherited their mother's kindhearted spirit. Although Gene passed away before Mona on Nov. 1, 2020, their love story continued to inspire their 26 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

Mona's legacy is also carried on by her brother, John (Kathy) Schutz of New Carlisle; along with several nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly. She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Gene; her son, Terrence Pavey; a grandchild, Tracy Pavey; three great-grandsons, Jacob, Cohen and Brody Pavey; and her siblings, Johanna Eller, Diane Justice, Gene Schutz and Suzanne Cummings.

As a 1949 graduate of La Porte High School, Mona dedicated her life to her family and community. She was a homemaker par excellence and a part-owner of Pavey Excavating, where she contributed her keen sense of business and unwavering support. Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence, and she was an active member of Holy Family Parish, St. Peter Catholic Church. There, she served with the Madonna Circle, and raised her voice in song with the St. Peter Funeral Choir. She was a volunteer with Parents & Friends. Mona and her husband donated a police dog, "Dallas," to the city of La Porte Police Department.

Mona's interests were a reflection of her compassionate soul. She was a person who found pleasure in supporting others and giving back to her community. She was loving, kind and generous, not only to her family but to all who knew her. Her presence was comforting, her smile uplifting and her guidance sought by many.

As we say goodbye to Marilyn Ann "Mona" Pavey, we celebrate a life that was truly well-lived. Her memory will be treasured and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Mona's family takes comfort in the knowledge that she is now at peace, reunited with her Lord Jesus Christ and Savior, and her dear husband and loved ones who have gone before her. Her journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told forever.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

A Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday in the Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 1 p.m. Monday, July 21, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, St. Peter Church, 1101 Michigan Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

Family and friends may visit from 12 noon to 12:45 p.m. Monday, July 21, 2025, in the Funeral Home prior to the Mass.

Burial will follow at Patton Cemetery in La Porte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Share Foundation with the Handicapped Inc., Endowment Fund, held at Unity Foundation, 422 Franklin Street, Suite C., Michigan City, Indiana 46360.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Mona's life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.