Mary Elizabeth Reiser

Mary E. “Beth” Reiser, 72, of Decatur, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025 at The ARC at Hickory Point surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be 10:00 – 11:00 AM, Friday, December 19, 2025 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 800 W Main St, Ashland, IL. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM, Friday at the church with Fr. Richard Chiola, Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Augustine Cemetery, Ashland. Memorials in Mary’s honor may be made to Good Samaritan Inn, 920 North Union St, Decatur, IL 62521 or at www.goodsamaritaninn.com.

Mary was born September 4, 1953 in Springfield, the daughter of Joseph and Lillian (Marty) Reiser. Mary grew up in Ashland and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University. She was a member of the math department at St. Teresa High School for 35 years. Mary served as an Associate with the Franciscan Order of nuns for 25 years. She was active in the Greater Decatur Chorale and traveled through Europe with the Chorale. Mary was on the Adoration Team at St. Mary’s Hospital and volunteered at Good Samaritan Inn. She enjoyed watching game shows, especially Jeopardy. Mary was a member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 50 years. She was a 50 year member of St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Decatur.

Surviving is her long time friend, Karen Benjamin. She is also survived by her brother, Charles Reiser; sister-in-law, Gloria Reiser and her nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; Ann (John) Puls, Sue Reiser and Marty Reiser.