Mary Ellen Martin

Mary Ellen Martin, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in Taylorville, IL.

On July 2, 1938, in Rombauer, MO, she was born to the late Philip and Leota (née Foster) Rievley.

She married the love of her life Irvin Martin on December 24, 1960, at the First Christian Church in Chaffee, MO. He preceded her in death on October 17, 2003.

Mary had been a teacher for the Decatur Public School District; a teacher in Illiopolis, IL; and, lastly, a principal for Vision Way Christian School in Taylorville, IL. She had received a Master's in Childhood Education and had dedicated her entire life to the education of children.

She was an avid follower of Christ and was a faithful member and supporter of Niantic Foursquare in Niantic, IL and then of Faith Community Worship Center in Taylorville, IL.

Survivors include her son, Barry (Tina) Martin of Taylorville, IL; daughter Vickie (Brett) Duncan of Prairie City, IA; and one sister Roberta Grojean of Chaffee, MO; six grandchildren: Rebekah (Paul) Murry, Brian Duncan, Bradley (Joleen) Martin, Alex Duncan, Brittany (Bobby) Crabtree, and Elizabeth Martin; and five nieces and nephews: Beth Bower, Joleen Dysinger, Robert Grojean, Marla Eftink, and Greg Pobst; and seventeen great-grandchildren and one on the way.

In addition to her husband, Irvin, of forty-three years and her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother Donald Rievley, and two sisters: Kay Pobst and Irene Tidwell.

A graveside service is scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m at the Lightner Cemetery in Scott City, MO.

Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Scott City is assisting with arrangements.