Mary Sivert, age 97, of Lawrenceville, IL, passed away peacefully August 10, 2015. She was born April 2, 1918, to Sabine and Maude (Osborn) White in Lukin Township, Lawrence County. She married Phil Sivert on December 23, 1940, and they were married for over 60 years until his death on June 19, 2008.
Mary began her teaching career in a rural one-room school house. She subsequently taught elementary and middle school music and kindergarten in the Lawrenceville schools. She and Phil volunteered in many civic activities including Retired Teachers Association, city beautification, and tutoring at area schools. Mary was active in P.E.O., serving as president of her chapter. She was a longtime member of First Christian Church where she directed the choir for many years. Mary loved being with family and friends, traveling, gardening and playing the piano.
Preceding Mary in death were her parents; her husband Phil; two brothers, Hugh White and Bob White and a twin sister, Martha Browning.
Survivors include a daughter, Suzanne Musgrove and son-in-law Tom of Houston, TX; three grandchildren, Melanie Musgrove, Craig Musgrove and wife Cindy, and Christopher Musgrove; two great-grandchildren Daniella and Lucas; a brother, John White of Lawrenceville; and many nieces and nephews.
The family is saddened by her death but are thankful for the love and joy she shared with each of us.
A Memorial Service in celebration of her life will be at 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 5, 2015, at Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Saturday at the funeral home.