Mary Ann DeCook

Mary Ann DeCook, 93, of Jefferson City, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was born on March 1, 1932 in Mary's Home, Missouri, to Fred and Dora (Schulte) Berendzen. Mary Ann grew up surrounded by brothers and sisters, strong opinions, and sturdy values. That small-town upbringing helped shape the strength and independence she carried throughout her life-because she had no intention of living a small life.

In her 20s, Mary Ann moved to Chicago and was accepted into the graphic design training program at Eastman Kodak, proving early on that she was not afraid of big cities and big opportunities. She built a career with the Chicago North Western Railroad in public relations and graphic design. When asked about her time there, she would often reminisce about the people she met, martini lunches, and the view of the Chicago River from her office. At a time when few women forged their own path, Mary Ann did so with determination and independence.

She traveled the country and the world with curiosity and confidence, collecting stories instead of souvenirs and proving that age is less a limitation and more of a suggestion.

She later moved back to Jefferson City so she and her children could be closer to family, who meant the world to her. Mary Ann worked as a graphic designer at Modern Litho while raising her children as a single mother, often working more than one job. While Dori and Jay were in college, she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She then began her second profession as a paraprofessional with Jefferson City Public Schools and continued serving as a substitute teacher until last year.

While others slowed down, she simply adjusted her pace and kept going.

Mary Ann loved her children, Dori and Jay, dearly and raised them with strength, humor, and a look that could stop nonsense mid-sentence. She talked to her children every day and never hesitated to tell them how proud she was of their accomplishments. Dori and Jay became the people they are because of their Mom. Mary Ann, Dori and Jay were always together. Her proudest titles were Mom, Nana, Miss Mary, and Aunt Mary, and family was always at the center of her life.

She adored her grandchildren and she never missed a chance to show off their pictures and talk about what they were doing. She loved doing puzzles with Jackson, baking with Brooklyn, and stopping at Central Dairy for ice cream whenever they were in town. She was proud of Eden and Spencer. She could be found crafting or shopping at TJ Maxx with Eden and making Kraft macaroni and cheese for Spencer–it had to be Kraft. She loved sports and could almost always be found at Brooklyn, Jackson, Spencer, and Eden's games or school events, cheering them on from the sidelines. Mary Ann was also known for her fettuccine, monster cookies, and strawberry layer dessert-dishes that became family favorites.

She was a fiercely loyal fan of the New York Knicks thanks in part to her good friend, OG Anunoby. She texted with him after many games and analyzed plays like she was part of the coaching staff. There was no question she was one of his biggest fans.

She is survived by her daughter, Dori; daughter-in-law, Christina; grandchildren Brooklyn, Jackson, Spencer (Jessica), and Eden; her great-grandson, Xander; sister-in-law Dorothy Mae Berendzen; and her nephew Jerry Doerhoff, whom she loved like a son. She is also survived by too many nieces and nephews to count, many wonderful friends and former students that meant so much to her.

She was reunited in passing with many loved ones, including her son Jay, whom she had missed terribly for the past five years; her parents, Fred and Dora Berendzen; and her siblings Rosie, Edna (Norman), Norbert (Mary Lou), Clarence, and Evelyn.

Ninety-three years was a remarkable run, but Mary Ann would remind us that life isn't measured in years-it's measured in miles traveled, chances taken, points scored, and stories worth telling twice. Somewhere there is a new adventure beginning, and a woman already making sure things are done properly-and probably checking the score.

A Prayer Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Houser-Millard Funeral Director, with Father Medina officiating. Immediately following, a Celebration of Life will be held at Apple Creek Farm, where family and friends are invited to gather together to enjoy one another's company, share stories, laughter, and remember the many moments that made her life so special.

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com