Mary Louise Cruse, 73, of Paxton passed away at 9:55 p.m. Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 29, 2025 at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells St., Paxton with Pastor Neal Hauser officiating. Burial will follow in Stearns Cemetery, Royal.

Visitation will be Monday from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Mary was born November 24, 1951 in Paxton the daughter of Morris and Betty Fruhling McLeod. She married Richard W. "Zero" Cruse on November 16, 1971 in rural Paxton. He preceded her in death January 10, 2014.

She is survived by a daughter, Marlene (Jerry) McCreary of Loda; a son, James Cruse of Paxton; five grandchildren,  Danielle Hauersperger of Piper City, Jordan (Karli) McCreary of rural Buckley, Gladys Rowan of Champaign, Calvin Rowan of Paxton, Shelby Rowan of Champaign; six great grandchildren, Ahlden, Silas, RaeLynn, Presley, Judson, and Ellie; four sisters, Kathy (Jim) Patten of Paxton, Brenda MacPeek of Rantoul, Rhonda (Rod) Tate of Dallas, North Carolina, Barbara Harris of Gastonia, North Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Bruce Cruse and a daughter, Sandra Rowan, and a sister, Angela Dennison.

Mary was a member of the Dewey Community Church. She had a passion for anything that was horse related. Mary loved cooking and was known to make the best potato salad. Her greatest joy was when she spent time with her family.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.