Mary Behan, age 76, of Warren, IL passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Born on July 3, 1948 in Oak Park, IL, the daughter of Frank and Edna (Higgins) Hathaway.  Mary was a beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend who touched countless lives with her warmth, generosity, and compassion.

She is survived by her devoted brother Tom Hathaway, and sister-in-law, Barb Hathaway, her cousin and dear friend Jill Petre along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and an extensive circle of friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her brother James Hathaway.

Mary's career spanned several decades at Illinois Bell Telephone Company/AT&T where she

started right after high school and eventually became one of the company's lead trainers. She

was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and the positive impact she had on her colleagues.

Outside of work, Mary had a passion for giving back. She was a steadfast supporter of

charitable causes, particularly the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, where she raised

thousands of dollars over the years. Her commitment to helping others was a defining aspect of

her life, and she will be remembered for the selflessness and kindness she consistently demonstrated.

In her free time, Mary enjoyed playing cards, visiting the casino, and indulging in comedies and

sitcoms. She was a dedicated fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs, often sharing her

love for the teams with friends and family.

Mary's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Her kindness, compassion, and

unwavering support will be deeply missed, but her memory will be cherished forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your local Relay for Life event in

Mary's memory.

A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on Tuesday, October 15 at 12:00

pm at the Apple River Event Center 446 E Hickory St in Apple River, IL.

A luncheon to follow.