DeKalb, IL - Mary E. Claxton age 87 of DeKalb, IL, and formerly of Malta, IL, died on Wednesday July 15, 2009 in the DeKalb County Rehab. And Nursing Center in DeKalb. Born on September 1, 1921 in Malta, IL, she was the daughter of Alva and Anna (Skelly) Freeman.

Mary was married to the late Phillip Claxton on October 24, 1939 in Malta, IL; he preceded her in death on September 1, 1977. Mary was a retired secretary from the Northern Illinois University Lab School and Field House. She was a life long residence of Malta, and a member of the Malta United Methodist Church. Mary was a die hard Chicago Cubs and Bulls fan. She graduated from Malta High School class of 1939.

Survivors include: son: James (Lynn) Claxton of LA, daughter: JoAnn Hackbarth of DeKalb, grandchildren: Michael (Karen) Claxton, Todd (Shelly) Claxton, Jerry Claxton, Matt (Jessica) Claxton, Kevin (Rachelle) Claxton, Eric (Amy) Mattis, Troy (Katy) Mattis, Nicole (Chris) Wiehle, step-grandchildren: Donna Frahely, Brian Chester, Danny (Jessica) Chester, Holly Chester, 29 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by: parents, husband: Phillip, daughter: Janice Arwood, brother: Chester Freeman, in-laws: Harry (Carrie) Claxton.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday July 18, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the Ronan-Moore-Finch Funeral Home with Pastor Robert L. Vaughn officiating. Burial will be in Malta Cemetery in Malta, IL. Visitation will be held on Saturday July 18, 2009 at 10:00 AM till the time of the service in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the DeKalb County Hospice. To send an online condolence visit: www.ronanmoorefinch.com. Arrangements were entrusted to: Ronan-Moore-Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL, 60115 (815)758-3841.