Mary Etta Flowers, 94, of Jacksonville, Illinois, died Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital.

She was born March 8, 1931, in Jacksonville, the daughter of Clifford and Irene (Cannon) Gillis. Mary married Thomas Flowers of March 6, 1949, and he preceded her in death on August 26, 1965.

She is survived by her son, Larry (Jacqueline) Flowers of Luray, KS; grandson, Christopher Flowers of Lawrence, KS; sister-in-law, Esta Gillis; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, Clifford Gillis Jr., William Gillis, Donald Gillis, Pauline Shyroch, and Barbara Mitchell; niece, Emma Calhoun; and nephew, William Gillis Jr.

Mary worked as a presser at Olsen's Cleaners for over forty years. She enjoyed gardening and working on and around the house in her spare time. She loved to decorate the house for Christmas, as that was her favorite holiday. Mary loved animals and especially helping others.

A graveside service will be held 11 AM Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Ebenezer Cemetery, just north of Jacksonville. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to P.A.W.S. of Jacksonville or to Morgan County Animal Control. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.