Mary Celeschi Stoltey, 96 of Rantoul formerly of Bayles Lake, Loda, passed away at 7:34 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the Villas of Holly Brook, Rantoul.

Mary was born March 5, 1928, at Guthrie, Illinois a daughter of Paul and Lucy Gentili Celeschi.  She married Robert Stoltey on May 29, 1971, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Champaign.  He preceded her in death October 8, 1985.

She is survived by her twin sister, Eva Acree of Gibson City; sister, Anita During of Rantoul; two sisters-in-law Marilyn Celeschi of Madison, Wisconsin and Virginia Celeschi of Melvin; stepdaughter, Sharon (Ron) McGuire of Port Charlotte, FL, several grand and great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, Faye O'Neal, brothers, Aldo, Deno and Emil Celeschi, twin brothers, and a half-brother in Italy, Dominico Gentili; stepson, Terry Stoltey and her companion of many years, Jack Thorstenson.

Mary ran a women's softball team, was a certified bowling instructor, member of both Gibson City and Champaign Bowling Associations and elected to both Hall of Fames of Bowling.  In 1959 she was elected the Ford County Centennial Queen.

Mary worked at Stoker Lumber Co., Gibson City for 16 years.  In 1961 moved to Champaign and worked at Western Bowl for 23 years.  She retired in 1981.  In 1971 she moved to Bayles Lake, Loda where she enjoyed walking around the lake, boating, playing cards, and having family reunions.  She also enjoyed bowling and rooting for the Cubs with the senior bus gang.

She will be remembered saying: "Everything always happens for the best!"

A graveside service will be held at Drummer Twp Cemetery, Gibson City, at a later date.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.