Mary Anna Stanker, age 80, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2025, at her residence surrounded by her family.
Mary Anna Stanker, age 80, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2025, at her residence surrounded by her family. She was born July 9, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Frank Stanker and Betty Mae (Rushing) Stanker.
Mary dedicated 35 years of her life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the United Methodist Village. Known for her compassion and gentle spirit, she touched the lives of countless residents and coworkers. She was a devoted member of Calvary Apostolic Church.
Mary loved celebrating holidays, spending time with her family, shopping, and decorating her lawn. Her joyful personality shone brightest during her favorite season — Christmas — and her love for the color orange reflected her warm and vibrant spirit.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her son, Anthony “Tony” Stanker; and her brothers, Albert, Felix, and George Stanker.
Survivors include her children, Rane (Tom) Helderman of Lawrenceville, Lynn (Ronald) Powers of Lawrenceville, Billy (Laci) Stanker of Lawrenceville, and David (Katie) Stanker of Lawrenceville; her brother, Charles Stanker of Lawrenceville; her special nephew, Richard (Quanda) Bice; nieces and nephews, including David Stanker, Albert Stanker Jr., and Mary Ann Steele; along with several additional nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Kaleb Shapinsky, Anthony Eli Helderman, Chris Stanker, Liberty Stanker, and Janie Brunson; and great-grandchildren, Hailey Shapinsky, Elijah Helderman, Noah Helderman, Aurelia Helderman, Ledger Stanker, Axton Stanker, Charlee Brunson, and Camryn Brunson.
Mary will be remembered for her kind heart, her love of family, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Per Mary’s wishes, cremation will follow visitation.
