Mary Ellen Hemrich, 80, of Rantoul passed away at 2:11 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2026 at St. Malachy Catholic Church, Rantoul with Father John Verrier and Father Joachim Tyrtania officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rantoul.

Visitation will be from 9:00 -10:00 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2026 at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells St., Paxton.

Mary was born December 24, 1945 in Urbana the daughter of Joseph and Leona McDonald Bermingham. She married Dennis R. Hemrich on September 25, 1965 at St. Malachy Catholic Church, Rantoul. He survives.

Along with her husband, Dennis, she is survived by her children, Denise (Kevin) Skomer of Batavia, Rich (Robin Frederick) Hemrich of Rantoul; two grandchildren, Kelsey (James) Kemp of Glen Ellyn, Jacob Skomer of Wicker Park; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Joseph Bermingham Jr. and Bernard Bermingham.

Mary spent her childhood in Rantoul. She attended Donovan Memorial School, Rantoul and graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1963. She was a beautician and started at Marge Bohnest Beauty Salon, Rantoul and later operated a beauty salon out of her home for over 40 years. Mary was a member of St. Malachy Catholic Church, Rantoul.

Mary dedicated her life to others. She served as a caregiver to many family members and always focused on helping those in need. Mary loved all kinds of animals, rescuing many throughout the years. She most especially loved her precious cat, Callie.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.