Mary Ellen (Patton) Lewis, 87, of Centralia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri.

Mary was born on June 12, 1939, in Centralia, Missouri, to Thomas L. Patton and Gladys Mae (Ward) Patton. She graduated from Centralia High School in 1958. In September 1960, she married Richard L. Lewis of Moberly, Missouri. They shared many years together. Richard preceded her in death in 2012.

Mary dedicated many years of service to A.B. Chance Company, later known as Hubbell, where she worked until her retirement in 2001. Throughout her life, she called Missouri home, living in Kansas City and St. Louis before returning to Centralia, where she spent the remainder of her years.

Mary never met a stranger for long. She loved spending time fishing, trying her luck at the casinos, listening to country music, and sharing laughter with friends. She enjoyed collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia and dolls, hobbies that reflected both her nostalgic spirit and playful personality. Mary was known for being cantankerous, delightfully unfiltered, and always ready to enjoy life.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas L. Patton and Gladys Mae (Ward) Patton; her former husband, Richard L. Lewis; and her brothers, Thomas W. Patton and Lannie Patton.

Mary is survived by her sisters-in-law, Eileen Patton and Mary Patton, both of Centralia, Missouri, and Marie Lewis of Mineral Point, Missouri; her nieces, Daphne Ingebritson, Devona Patton, and Ginger Fadler; her nephew, Carl Ray Patton; her grand-nieces, Samantha Ingebritson and Maggie Roberts; her grand-nephews, Patrick Roberts and Mathew Ingebritson; several great-grand-nieces and great-grand-nephews; extended family; and many friends.

Mary's family will forever remember her independent spirit, laughter, and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures. She lived life unapologetically, spoke her mind without hesitation, and remained true to herself until the very end.

Service arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.