Mary Louise O'Keefe (McCafferty) was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry O'Keefe; loving mother of Larry (Mary), Patrick, Tim (Sandy), and Misty; cherished grandmother of Rebecca (Edward), Shawn (Chris), Patrick Wayne (Heather), Josh (Laura), Danielle (Adam), Brian, Kelsey, Ericka (Cierra), and Rheanna; great-grandmother of Tyler, Verona, DJ, LJ, Kaylin, Dylan, Sean, Kayleigh, Domenic, Adelia, Gabin, Hayden, Nick, Delaney, Kinley, Everley, Alex, and Elizabeth and great-great grandmother of Aubrey. Mary was sadly preceded in death by all of her siblings, Alma (Clarence), Mildred (George), Cora (Jim), Edith (Ed), Daisy (Clarence), Virginia (Richard), and Riley (Dee). She leaves many nieces, nephews, and friends, many that were more family than friends.

Mary was 18 when she married Larry and they had a wonderful marriage until he passed away when she was 65. She missed him every day since. She was independent and a strong woman. She recovered from the stroke 8 years ago and did everything she was asked so that she could walk and talk and continue living life. Even Sunday early afternoon, the PT/OT asked her since she was a warrior did she roar - Mary proceeded to roar for them. She definitely had a fighting spirit, but an additional stroke Sunday night won the fight. Even still, she fought longer and harder than most before passing away peacefully on Saturday, August 17th. Many loved ones were able to spend time with her over the week, sharing many stories. Even Battlehawk nation friends honored her!

She is gone but her legacy will live on. We love you GiGi!

Mary's wishes to be donated to science were honored. She will be assisting a Washington University student further their education.

A celebration of life will be held on September 22nd, 1:00 to 4:00 pm, at O'Fallon Elks Lodge #2587, 1163 Tom Ginnever Avenue, O'Fallon, MO 63366. Please join us in a luncheon and sharing of memories.

The family asks that no flowers or plants be sent. If you would like to send a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/givehope) in her honor we would appreciate it. It was a charity that meant a lot to her.