Mary Utley

Mary Utley
1936-10-31 – 2025-10-14
She walked with grace through every day,
A gentle light along life's way.
With kindness sown in every deed,
She gave the love we all still need.
Her laughter warmed the coldest air,
Her wisdom taught us how to care.
She held our hands through joy and pain,
And now her touch remains like rain –
Soft, unseen, but always near,
A whisper in the hearts held dear.
Though time may pass and seasons flee,
Her soul lives on in memory.
So let us speak her name with pride,
And carry her love deep inside.
For Mary's life, so richly blessed,
Now finds its peace, eternal rest.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Utley, who peacefully left us on October 14, 2025, followed by a short illness. Mary was born on October 31, 1936, in Manchester, Kentucky, to her parents Leonard and Addie Smith.

Mary loved to sew and one of her favorite things to create was quilts. She lovingly made quilts for her children, grandchildren, and most recently, her great-grandchildren. Up until about a month ago, you could often find Mary on her beloved John Deere riding lawnmower! She said it was her grass (several acres) and by golly, she was going to cut it! She loved cultivating many varieties of flowers that attracted bees, birds, deer and the occasional skunk and possum. Mary also loved to cook for her family. She had no recipes she followed, she said it was all in her head. One of her favorite things to cook was Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. Her dressing was legendary, along with the eight or so side dishes! Daughter Debra made all the desserts and daughter-in-law Cathy was the official taste tester of the dressing!

Mary was a beloved mother to her daughters Debra Hein and Cheri Romero, and her son Leroy Utley (Cathy). She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Todd Hein (Michelle), Trenda Smith (Trent), Nick Utley, Zach Utley (Jessica), Andrea and Josie Romero, great-grandchildren Jacob Hein, Emily and Jace Smith, and Rylee and Easton Utley. Mary is also survived by her brother Bobby Smith (Dorla). Mary was preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Addie Smith, brothers Larry and Jack Smith, and her husband Jim Utley.

In accordance with Mary's wishes, there will be no funeral service, but visitation will be held for friends and family to pay their respects at Fern Creek Funeral Home, 5406 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40291 on Wednesday, October 22nd from 2-7pm. Mary Utley will always be remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family. May she rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Humane Society of Oldham County 2601 Interior Way, LaGrange, KY 40031.