Mary Bowrey

Mary Kathryn (Newcome) Bowrey was surrounded by family as she passed into eternal life on January 21, 2023. She was welcomed into heaven by Jesus, her Savior and Lord, and her parents, Haldon and Mae Newcome. Mary was born on December 26, 1947, in Decatur, Illinois, and married Michael Bowrey April 11, 1975. They have a daughter, Melody Bowrey.

A lifelong resident of Decatur, Mary sang her way through life. She was a vital part of choirs and various musical groups, the lead singer in “Master Control”, and she originated the lead female role in the Easter musical, “Malcus”, continuing that role for 7 years. She was a worshipper of Jesus in her music and in her daily life. Mary was a salon hair stylist for over 50 years, also working for many years at Brintlinger and Earl funeral home. Mary was a phenomenal cook, a Master Gardener, an animal lover, and a generous, joyous person.

Mary’s priority was relationships. She leaves countless loving friends, who will remember her with joy. Her family, who will always be thankful for her life and love, includes husband Michael and daughter Melody of Decatur, sister Karen (Stephen) Neece of Pana, brother Jim (Lonni) Newcome of Decatur, and nine nieces and nephews, including beloved nephews Nathan Shaffer, William Bowrey, and Jeffrey Tucker.

In honor and celebration of Mary’s life, a memorial service will be held at Renaissance Church in downtown Decatur at 11:00AM on Saturday, January 28, 2023. The family will accept friends from 9:00-11:00 AM. Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Decatur. Memorials may be made to the family.