Mary J. Eckhart, 103, of Washington, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Snyder Village in Metamora, Illinois, after a brief illness.

She was born on July 24, 1922, in Quincy, Illinois, to Julius and Emily Neuer Hapke. She married Robert Eckhart on November 11, 1954, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington. He passed away on May 26, 2012. Her brother Richard Hapke, brother-in-law Warren Eckhart, and nephew Joel Hapke also preceded her in death.

Surviving relatives include nephew James (Barbara) Eckhart of Germantown Hills, Illinois; niece Karen (Alan) Phillips of Peoria, Illinois; and nephew Mark (Tammy) Hapke of Bloomington, Illinois.

Mary attended Brown Business College in Peoria, where she honed her skills in business management and accounting, setting herself up for a lifetime of professional achievement. Upon completing her education, Mary began her career at the Brass Foundry Company in Peoria, then Oscar Saal CPA, and later the Peoria and Pekin Union Railway all before her marriage to Bob.

Mary was a member of the Alpha Iota Sorority, VW Club of America, and the Caterpillar Retirees Club. She was actively engaged with St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington, when she joined in 1940, and was the eldest member of the church. She was a member of women's circles at the church: including the Morning Star, Gloria Dei, and Dorcas. She also participated in the Altar Guild, the Worship and Music committee, the Senior Choir, and the Sunday School, where she accompanied the classes. Mary was the “one woman” sunshine committee at the church. However, it was her unwavering commitment to her church community that truly set Mary apart. She had a unique tradition of sending personalized cards to shut-in members on their birthdays, anniversaries, and during times of both celebration and sorrow.

Mary’s funeral service is scheduled for 11 am on Monday, March 9, 2026, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington. Pastor Jen Beamsley and Pastor Richard Hanson will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 10:45 am at the church. Burial will follow her service at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington has been entrusted with arrangements. To share a memory or send a condolence to her family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.