Mary L. Slay

We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mary L. Slay, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 86 years old and lived a life filled with love, laughter and devotion to her family.

Mary was born on July 7, 1939, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to Holly DeJong and William Blackwell. She married Larry L. Slay on February 4, 1956, and together they raised four wonderful children.

Mary retired after 22 years at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. She served as a hairstylist and provided other services for patients. Following retirement, she continued to share her time and compassion through the University of Iowa Hospitals Volunteer Services. Her kindness and dedication touched the lives of many throughout the community.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest joy was her family. She was the heart of family gatherings and the source of endless love. Her legacy lives on in the lives of those she loved so deeply. Mary also had a passion for shopping, coordinating her outfits, and always making sure she looked her best for every occasion-something that brought her great joy and reflected her vibrant spirit. Of course, her favorite animal prints-whether in pictures, outfits, or purses-were always part of her signature style.

Survivors include her four children: Julie Africa (Fred), Craig Slay, Eric Slay (Denise), and Jamie Slay (Shelley); ten grandchildren: Ryan Africa, Dillon Africa (Alivia), Matt Slay (Kelsey), Nic Slay, Jeromy Slay (Kelsey), Kelsey Mast (Colton), Whitney DeGroot (Zach), Ashley SlayMoore (John), Madison Slay (James), and Sidney Slay; and eleven great-grandchildren: Ashton Africa, Jillian, Sawyer, and Bodee Slay; Ethan, Myles, Avery, and Jackson Slay; and Reilynn, Piper, and Griffin DeGroot.

She is also survived by her stepsister, Bonnie Van Halen (Larry).

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, and her parents, Holly DeJong and William Blackwell.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held on November 15, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 PM at the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame, 2425 Prairie Meadow Drive, Iowa City, Iowa, where family and friends are invited to gather and honor her memory. Per her wishes, there will be no visitation or formal services-only a celebration of her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family, Julie Africa (daughter), for donation to the University of Iowa Volunteer Service or Friends of the Animal Center Foundation of Iowa City at https://facf.networkforgood.com/projects/6121-friends-of-the-animal-center-foundation

Mary touched countless lives with her generosity, gentle spirit, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her. You will be loved forever, Mom.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Briarwood Healthcare Center and Essence of Life Hospice for their exceptional care, compassion, and dedication in supporting Mom and our family.