Mary I. Sierra

Mary Sierra, age 85, was taken by the hand of God on Tuesday, January 17, 2017.  He led her to a place where she can continue to share her love and special joy. She’ll be welcomed by her husband, Cecil; sons, Steven and Russell; parents, Lucy and Joe; sisters, Virginia, Jenny and Rosalie; brothers, Cornelius, Larry, and Michael; and many other friends and family members.

Mom had a way with people. She never forgot your face and rarely forgot a name. It was a gift. This measure of loss is enormous….for all of us. Our world was a better place, while you were in it, Mom. You will be fondly remembered.

Growing up as a young child during the Depression Era, molded Mom into a very generous adult, because her heart was HUGE.  She would share anything she had, with someone else who needed it. The stories she shared with us about her younger days, helped to shape our characters, and open our hearts and minds to the needs of others. We were not allowed to be cruel or selfish cold hearted individuals.

When times were hard, we were taught to not only be thankful for what we DID have, but to find “humor” in life, when possible. Laughing is free, and it is good medicine for heavy hearts.

"The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy." Kalu Ndukwe Kalu

“People will always remember how you made them feel.”   

Well, Mom….you left behind people who will remember that you made them feel like THEY were special.  You were a very special spirit.  We believe that when our turn comes…..we will be reunited with you and other loved ones.  Thank you, Mom, for teaching us about God, about humor and love, kindness and honesty, and giving of ourselves to others.  You made your mark in this world, and that mark lives in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing you. 

Dance every day, and enjoy your heavenly rewards!  We will see you again…. but we will try to take our very sweet time getting there.

Mary leaves behind two daughters, Sue (Sue and Mom took turns being great caregivers for each other) and Gloria (Warren, Tara and Scott, Charlotte, Cecilia and Colter; Monte, Matthew and Mitchell); two brothers, David and Felix; special family friend, Phyllis; and many cherished extended family and friends.  You don’t live over eight decades without touching many beautiful hearts. 

We are all stronger for having been loved by Mary.  For those of you who were so very good to our mom, may God shine His light on you always!  She spoke your names with appreciation, respect and love, as she slipped from this world, with a smile on her face, to the next stage of her life.  You made her feel special and YOU made that your gift to her while she was alive….THANK YOU.  We are happy for those who got to share in her life and experience her joyful spirit….rest in peace, Mom.  Save a little energy for us….we’ll be there someday…..ready to dance and laugh with you!  Thank you, for all you gave, to all of us.  Pray for us, and we will look for you in everything “beautiful” and “sweet”.  We will take the best things from our time with you and find a way to insert them into our futures, to carry on your legacy of love and acceptance. 

With love and respect…til we meet again, our Sweet Mary….your entourage of family, friends, and fans.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 24, 2017 in Mt. Thabor Cemetery, 2222 Shopiere Road, Beloit, WI 53511.

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