Mary Theresa Sova, affectionately known as "Toots", age 89, went to be home with the Lord on July 11, 2022, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease. She passed away peacefully at Lightways Hospice with family by her side. She was the loving and devoted wife of the late Walter J. Sova, Jr. of 52 years. She is survived by her daughters Karen (Thomas) Tomac, Judy (Mark) Merzlock, and son David Sova (Stacey Christos), who has been the guardian and protector of his mother's welfare during her illness. Also left to cherish her memory are grandson Michael A. Tomac, granddaughter Kristyn Sova and grandson Matthew Sova. Mary was born and raised in Joliet and attended St. Joseph's Catholic Grade School and was a graduate of Joliet Township High School Class of 1950. After graduation she worked as a secretary at Lewis College. Upon Walter's return from service in the Korean War, they were married and soon started a family. Mary was a wonderful homemaker and cook and always had an open door of hospitality and kindness for family, neighbors, and all of God's creatures. She was a devoted Catholic and parishioner at St. Mary's Nativity Parish. Her faith and family were a constant in her life. In addition to being a homemaker, Mary also worked as a bookkeeper for the Catholic Diocese of Joliet for 25 years. She enjoyed hosting Easter brunch, her favorite holiday of the year, and those in attendance enjoyed a tune or two as she entertained them on her accordion. She was proud of her Slovenian heritage and taught her daughters how to make potica. Her daughters also enjoyed their craft show outings every year with their mom. She enjoyed the companionship, laughter, and friendship of her "Beautiful Little Women" Club, the girls whose friendship lasted over 50 years. Mary was preceded in death by her loving husband Walter, grandchildren Raymond Joseph Sova (in infancy) and Rebecca Rose Sova; her parents Vera (nee Lobas) and Joseph Galick; brother, Richard G. Galick and sister-in-law, Mary Galick; her brothers-in-law Edward (Rita) Sova, John (Shirley) Sova; and sisters-in-law Loretta (John) Grachan, Eleanor (Richard) Martis. She leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews to cherish her memory. Mary put the needs of others before herself and will be truly missed! God bless you mom and we will see you in heaven! We wish to thank Lightways Hospice for their care and concern for our mother. Donations to Lightways Hospice would be appreciated. Cremation rites were accorded and inurnment at St. Joseph's Cemetery was private. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Farkas Funeral Home. For more information, please call 815-725-0100 or visit www.farkasfuneralhome.com.