Mary Creamer

Mary Creamer, born on October 26, 1929, in Saint Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024. Mary had an extraordinary life, filled with passion, compassion and a remarkable ability to connect with everyone around her. She was the beloved of the late Leo Joseph Creamer, II, a partnership that defined her life for many years.

In 1973, Mary and Leo took the leap of faith to purchase Forest Lawn Pet Cemetery, a testament to their shared love and respect for animals. Their commitment to providing a peaceful resting place for beloved pets reflected Mary’s innate kindness and deep empathy. Known for her nurturing spirit, Mary was someone who would extend a helping hand to anyone in need, embodying a true sense of community and compassion.

Mary’s vibrant personality won the hearts of many. With her kind, giving nature, she left a memorable impact on everyone she met. Her strength in beliefs was matched only by her generous heart, always standing up for those she loved and cared for. Friends often remarked on her ability to uplift spirits, and her laughter could light up the darkest of days.

An artistic soul, Mary, found joy in everyday moments. She had a unique talent for flower arranging, often working with silk flowers that would adorn her home. She also loved planting flowers in her garden and around the cemetery grounds, knowing everyone would enjoy the beautiful arrangement and aroma of the flowers. She delighted in feeding the birds, spending tranquil mornings watching them flit about from her kitchen window while savoring a cup of coffee with her husband Leo. Mary had a keen sense for fashion and was considered a trendsetter, always finding a way to express herself through her clothing. She donned leopard prints before they were in style and always said, "the fashion world will catch up." Leopard was her signature piece that was part of her wardrobe that she wore with style and panache. Her musical talents were equally impressive; she could whistle or sing any tune with ease, picking up songs faster than anyone else and sharing them with joy. Mary always had her favorite records playing throughout the day, while keeping her home immaculate. Another talent Mary was known for was her skilled cooking. Her signature dish was her German potato salad that was passed down for generations from her mother, and the wonderful spread she prepared for her and her brothers’ families on Thanksgiving.

Mary was always upbeat and could bring a room to laughter with her humorous ways and subtle whit. While never trying to be the center of attention, she could quietly command the ears and eyes of onlookers. 

Mary leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever. She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Ronald) Lessnau; Son-In-law, Richard Perry; grandchildren, Craig (Brooke) Kingston, Jason Lessnau, Megan (Mark) Teerlinck, Brandon Lessnau, and Lauren (Tyler) Baurick; as well as nine great-grandchildren, Baylor Kingston, Aidan Lessnau, Emma Lessnau, Nicholas Teerlinck, Colin Teerlinck, Ty Lessnau, Hadley Lessnau, Harper Lessnau, and Leo Baurick. Her brother, Ted Douglas, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also survive her and will hold dear the wonderful memories made together.

She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Leo; her daughter, Kathy Kingston-Perry; her mother, Estelle Mary Douglas; her father, David Arnold Douglas; her sister-in-law, Pat Douglas; and three brothers, Bill Douglas, Frank (Ida) Douglas, and Bob (Marie) Douglas. Each of these relationships shaped the person Mary became, and their memories continue to live on through the love she shared.

As we reflect on Mary’s remarkable journey, we are filled with gratitude for the love and kindness she so freely offered. Her legacy of compassion and strength will endure in the hearts of those she touched, reminding us all to embrace life with the same joy and generosity that she exemplified. Far beyond the memories linger the stories, laughter, and love that will forever be celebrated by her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Mary's name may be made out to the Alzheimer's Association online at www.alz.org