Mary L. Vallero, age 91, of Galesburg, died at 5:40 a.m. on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at Courtyard Estates of Knoxville. She was born on October 10, 1930 in Galesburg, the daughter of John F. and Ruth E. (Thorne) Leahy. She was reared and educated in the Knox County area, graduating from Corpus Christi High School with the class of 1948. After graduation, Mary went on to obtain an associate degree in nursing and began her career as a Registered Nurse at Galesburg Cottage Hospital. She loved her career as a R.N. and was employed with Cottage for over 30 years, then as a home health care nurse until her retirement. Left to cherish Mary’s memory are her two sons: Gregory (and Vickie) Vallero of Saint Charles, Missouri, Kevin (and Joanie) Vallero of Andalusia, Illinois; three brothers: Bill (and Virginia) Leahy, Michael (and Linda) Leahy, Daniel (and Ardennia) Leahy, all of Galesburg; one sister, Joanie Darnielle of Springfield, Illinois; and a sister-in-law, Betty Leahy of Henderson, Illinois. She is also survived by two grandchildren: Michael Vallero, Brian Vallero; two step-grandchildren: Tim Brown, Erik Brown; four step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Edwin Leahy, Richard (and Lawana) Leahy, Jim (and Marilyn) Leahy; two sisters: Patricia (and Bob) Hedden, Jane Elizabeth Alters; and one brother-in-law, Frank Darneille. Mary was a devoted member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Galesburg. She loved music and was also a member of the Sweet Adelines and sang with the Starlighters Band. She will be lovingly remembered for her fondness of animals, especially her dogs, and her enjoyment of exercise, including racquetball, walking, and water skiing. She loved helping to organize and participate in the Leahy Family Reunions and they will not be the same without her. She was a caring and devoted mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Cremation rites will be accorded. There will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the family.