Mary Jane Pearson

Mary Jane Pearson, 70, lifelong Rockford resident, died on Sunday, March 13, 2022 in her home. Born June 14, 1951 in Swedish American Hospital, daughter of Lawrence and Dorothy (Lundin) Kelley, joining sisters Janice and Patty. Graduated from East High School in 1969 and Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Education in 1973. Married Carl Pearson on June 22, 1974 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Mary lived a fulfilling life as a mother, wife and sister. She loved her travels with Carl and their daughter Sarah, which provided many memories. She was a Sunday School teacher at St. Mark Lutheran Church, which is something that she learned from her dad. She was a Title 1 teacher in RPS 205 and her greatest joy was that of being a wife, mother and grandmother. She was supportive of her family and helped for many years at Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days. Mary was very unselfish with a heart of gold while always putting others before herself. Survivors include her husband Carl; daughter, Sarah Pearson (Stephen Morlen); grandsons, Xander and Rowan Morlen; sister, Patty Burman and her children, Greg Burman and his son Brett Vitese, daughter, Jennifer (Dan Christen) and their daughters Alyssa and Annika and daughter Elizabeth Burman (fiance’ Stavros Tsitsopoulos); brother-in-law,Mike Costello and sons, Brian Costello and son, Ryan Costello, David (Becky) Costello and their son Elliott, Mikey Costello (Veronica) and their children, Savannah, Callie and Brady. Predeceased by her parents, sister Janice Costello and brother-in-law, Larry Burman.
A time of visitation will be held from noon until 2pm on Saturday, March 19, 2022 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Private family burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Those wishing to honor Mary’s life can make a donation in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or Alpine Kiwanis. Send condolences or share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com