Mary Lee Hoover, 87, passed away peacefully Sept. 11, 2026. She was born June 28, 1939, in Belzoni, Mississippi, to the late Iona (Tillman) Jefferson and Booker Jefferson.
Mary was the sixth of 12 siblings. She was raised in Tchula, Mississippi, where she attended Tchula School Elementary and later Milston High School.
As a young woman, Mary relocated from Mississippi to Chicago, where she met the love of her life, David Hoover. They were united in marriage and shared a beautiful journey together for more than 64 years. Their enduring love, commitment, and devotion to one another were a testament to the strength of family and faith.
Mary embraced the Christian faith and was a longtime and devoted member of Greater Holy Temple Church of God in Christ in Chicago. Later in life, she became a member of Monument Faith Evangelistic Church of Faith in Chicago, where she continued to worship and nurture her relationship with God.
Mary’s greatest joy was her family. Together, Mary and David raised seven children. She devoted herself to creating a loving home and instilling in her children the importance of family, faith, perseverance, and love.
Mary will be remembered for the love she gave to her family, her devotion to her husband, her faith in God, and the many lives she touched throughout her journey. Her presence brought strength, love, and memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her beloved husband of more than 64 years, David Hoover; six children, Martina “Sandra” Darcheville, Janis, Alan, Terry (Theresa), David Jr., and Kenneth (Moniquee); fourteen grandchildren: Tommy L. Jr. (Madelyn), Norris N., Maurice, Christian, Christian M., Faith M., Jamarie, Pierre, Darius, Jaylan, Kayla, Kameron, Kenneth Jr., and Courteney; and eight great-grandchildren: Kamyra, Tommy III, Millan, Kennedy, Amarion, Princess, Nefertiti, and D’Angelo E.
She was preceded in death by her son Darren Hoover and four sisters: Catherine Lumpkin, Evelyn, Ethel Fleming, and Clementine “Clem.” She was also preceded by siblings Jesse, Ossie Mae Cartharn, Willie Mae Rule, OC, Mae Pluma, Bernice Sutherland, and Chester (who died at age five).
Arrangements entrusted to Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Highway, Palos Hills, Illinois 60465.
For information or to express condolences, visit www.palosgaidasfh.com or call 708-974-4410.