Mary Ellen Kee (nee King), 84, of Collinsville, Il, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 11, 2022. Born in Biggers, Arkansas on March 13, 1938, she was the eldest of 4 children born to Robert and Arvella King.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Denny Kee, their 3 children Lisa (Leo) Schmittgens of St. Louis, Mo, Leslie (Patricia) Kee of Collinsville,  Il, and Laura (Wayne) Peterson of McDonough, Ga.  Their grandchildren Bill (Jessica) Gray, Dalton Peterson, Cade Peterson, and Valerie Schmittgens. And great-grandchildren McKenna and Hailey Gray.

Today we sing the praises of an unsung hero that is Mary Kee.  She was a selfless individual who planned and hosted many bi-annual family reunions and holiday dinners. She took care of a dear friend when she retired to an Assisted living facility. She never asked for anything in return.  She smothered her family with her 'squeaky kisses' that seemed to last forever.  She made so many people feel special. Her friends and acquaintances knew their relationships were genuine & personal.

Mary was in the banking field most of her career and was also a business owner with her husband.

She was always happiest with a glass of wine in her hand, surrounded by family or traveling with her husband .

Visitation will be Wednesday, November 16, 2022 from 11:00 a.m., to 12:00 p.m, at Sunset Hill Funeral Home, Glen Carbon, IL with a funeral service to follow at noon. Interment will follow at Sunset Hill Cemetery.

Donations can be made to the American Stroke Association or the Alzheimer Association.