Mary Ellen Cahill

Mary Ellen Cahill (née Thornton), born October 22, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away February 5, 2026. She devoted her life to caring for the people she loved most — her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Cahill, and is survived by her children, Josh Cahill, Erin Cahill, and Julie Antonic (Nancy); and her granddaughters, Summer and Morgan. She was grateful to reconnect later in life with her daughter Julie, a reunion that brought her great peace and joy.

A deeply loving and selfless mother, Mary dedicated herself to raising her children with constant support, protection, and unconditional love. Her greatest pride and purpose in life was being present in the everyday moments that mattered most. She was a baptized Catholic and carried her faith with her throughout her life.

Mary found joy in life’s simple routines and comforts. She loved cooking for others, tending to her garden, and shopping for the people she cared about. Each morning began the same way — with her first stop being a fresh cup of coffee — a small daily ritual that brought her peace and set the tone for her day.

One of nineteen children, Mary grew up in a large, lively family that helped shape her nurturing and resilient spirit. She was the beloved daughter of the late Oliver and Irene (née Plate) Thornton.

She is survived by her siblings: Oliver Jr. (late Luella), Geraldine Gousetis (late Richard), Thomas (Judith), Mildred Collins (Kirk), James (Glenna), Judith Necker (late James), Dorothy Donovan (late George Sr.), Edward (Marilyn), John, Patrick, and David (Rebecca). She was preceded in death by her siblings Daniel (late Cynthia), Timothy (Kathleen), Arthur, Joseph (late Paulette), Michael, Kathleen Lancia, and Earl (late Linda).

She was also a proud and loving godmother to Jennifer McCullough.

Mary’s life was defined by quiet sacrifice, steady presence, and unwavering love for her family. She will be remembered for her caring heart, her devotion to those closest to her, and the comfort she created in the lives of others.

A joint celebration of life for Mary and her husband, James Cahill, will be held on April 18. Family gathering will be from 12:00–1:00 p.m., with visitation from 1:00–4:00 p.m., followed by a brief service at 4:00 p.m. at Newcomer’s Funeral Home in St. Peters, Missouri.