Mary M. Tanton, 97, of Metamora, IL, formerly of Cazenovia, IL, passed away at 6:38 pm on Thursday, November 27, 2025 at Snyder Village Health Center in Metamora.

She was born on June 3, 1928, in Janesville, WI, to Robert B. and Elizabeth W. (Ritchie) McClellan. She grew up on Swiss Croft dairy farm outside of Delavan, WI. She married Henry Baldwin “Bud” Tanton on August 26, 1950 in Delavan, WI. He passed away on July 8, 2017.

Surviving are her children, Chuck (Sue) Tanton of Metamora, Steve (Maria Lea) Tanton of Cazenovia, IL, Barbara Reierson of Elko, NV, Susan (Jim) Swanson of Eagan, MN, Bud Tanton, Jr. of Rapid City, SD, and Jim (Donna) Butler of Crawfordville, FL; fourteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; and brothers, John R. McClellan of Delavan, WI, Robert B. McClellan, Jr. of Missoula, MT, and Frank R. McClellan of Pass Christian, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and grandson Chad Butler.

Mary was a graduate of Rockford College, Rockford, IL. She taught high school English at MTHS for many years. She taught swim lessons for many years at various locations in Woodford County. She also started and directed the swim lesson program at the Metamora Community Pool in 1965. Mary and Henry were very involved with foreign exchange programs and hosted many students over the years on the family farm at Cazenovia. Mary was involved in many organizations including 4-H, AFS, Peoria Area World Affairs Council, Snyder Village Board, and P.E.O.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Private Family Celebration of Life will be held at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel with Pastor Bob DeBolt officiating. Burial of Ashes will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Snyder Village Residents in Need Fund, 1200 East Partridge Street, Metamora, IL 61548, or P.E.O. Chapter BX, 12805 West Route 150, Brimfield, IL 61517. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.