Mary E. Clinton, 70, of Jacksonville, IL, died Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital.

She was born October 26, 1952, in Jacksonville, to George and Lois Fern (Morris) McKean. She married Leon Clinton on May 2, 1983, and he preceded her in death on October 31, 2007.

Mary is survived by her children, Angela Owings of Ashdown, AR, Andrew (Natalie) Owings of Aurora, Rebecca Owings of Jacksonville, Leon "L.C." (Paula) Clinton of Jacksonville, John (Melinda McLaughlin) Clinton of Ashdown, AR, and Benjamin Clinton and Alice (James) McGowan, both of Jacksonville; grandchildren, Alex Warren, Peyton Owings, Evan Owings, Zackary Stewart, Tyler Littler, Jayden Clinton, Leon J. Clinton II, Chastity Crites, Jamie Berkley, Steven Tucker, Caramico McLaughlin, JaLiana Clinton, Abrienne Clinton, Anthoney Clinton, Maleigha Clinton, Amar'e Clinton, Melody Clinton, Maesyn Clinton, Adam Clinton, Reginald Bratton Jr., Twanreona McGowan, and Antawan McGowan; sixteen great grandchildren; and her brother, John (Judy) McKean of Jacksonville.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one granddaughter, Leilana Lynn Warren; and one brother, George Lee McKean.

Mrs. Clinton was a 1970 graduate of Jacksonville High School. She went on to get her associate's degree in Education from Lincoln Land Community College where she had been on the Dean's List. Mary held several occupations that entailed caring for others, particular pre-school children and the developmentally disabled. Mary had also worked several years with the Girl's Club through Hobby Horse. She was of the Baptist faith. Mary loved crafting, photography, baking, and cooking.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Diamond Grove Cemetery. The family will meet friends from 1-2 p.m. at the cemetery prior to the service. Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.