Mary Chabot's Obituary
DECATUR- Mary Chabot, 93, of Vero Beach, Florida, formerly of Decatur, passed away quietly in her sleep with her family at her bedside.
Mary (Nee) Walsh, was born 14 March 1918, in Boston, Mass, the daughter of John Thomas Walsh and Johanna Clare Corcoran. While raising her family, Mary's many varied interests ranged from art and the humanities to decorating. In her middle years she studied and became proficient at oil painting, stenciling, and toll painting. Previously she was active in decorating and furniture restoration, braided rug making, cross-stitch and embroidery. During her life Mary supported the arts, attending many art and photography shows, theater, and varied musical performances. Well-read, Mary enjoyed the classics as well as her ever present latest 'Murder Mystery' books she kept nearby. Always active until a few years ago, Mary previously enjoyed Golf as well as ocean swimming then lately walking when she could. She was a devout Catholic, active in church at Holy Cross of Vero Beach, Florida, and St Thomas of Decatur, Illinois, her two residences until recently. Through the years Mary was also always proud of her Irish background and their varied culture. Mary also believed strongly in civic duty, working several years as a volunteer Poll worker during local elections. Mary loved traveling and was always up for a trip, especially visiting her children and families throughout the U.S., traveling with two friends to Australia and New Zealand at age 80, and later attending Bronson Mo. for a Country music week. Later she enjoyed a cruise through Europe with her daughter Suzanne and son-in-law Matt McCormick in 2005. Lifelong, Mary's main hobby interests focused on Bridge playing and flower gardening, active in clubs at both her residences. In 2009 Mary won an award for an orchid she grew, given out by the Vero Beach Orchid club. Always an animal lover, Mary tended several farms for many of her earlier married years, while taking care of five children, as her husband traveled weekly for business. Mary maintained many pets throughout her life, such as 'Tommy-Girl' her latest beloved cat. She married Fred R Chabot (Deceased Jan 1988) July 1946 and enjoyed many happy wedded years.
Mary is survived by her five children, Sons: Lance (Niceville, Fl.), Dennis (Williamsburg, Va.) Ronald (Urbana, Il.) and Daughters: Suzanne (Vero Beach, Fl.) and Clare (Aptos Hills, Ca.); Six grandchildren: Chris, David, Sara, Micah, Tommy and Rebecca; and two great grandchildren; Bailey and Ziva.
Mary will always be remembered for her wit, friendly demeanor, optimistic outlook and boundless energy. She will be missed by all who have known or met her throughout her long life.
Services celebrating Mary’s life will be 11:00 am Thursday, April 28, 2011 in Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to service in the funeral home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery.
The family of Mary Chabot is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL. View the on line obituary and send condolences to the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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