Mary Catherine Schaefer

Mary Catherine Lansford Schaefer, age 83, passed away on August 11, 2026. Born on January 26, 1943, Mary spent her life in Missouri, living in both Linn and St. Louis, where she built lasting friendships and touched countless lives.

Mary was baptized into the Catholic faith and was the eldest child of her loving parents, Gerald and Wilma (Rustemeyer) Lansford. Her faith, compassion, and devotion to family were her guiding principles throughout her life.

She was the beloved mother of four children, Roxann (Dave Ewing), Troy (Christy Peters Schaefer), Karen, (Pete Treloar) and Paula (Edgardo Alvira) and a cherished grandmother known affectionately as "Mammah" to Alexis, Sommer, Burhan, Jillian, Vassay, Sydney, Vincent, Arman and Andre. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Aubree and eagerly anticipated the arrival of baby Liam.

Mary is also survived by her five beloved siblings, Margaret (Charles Scheulen), Jeanie (Ed Gruetzemacher), Marlene (Ken Kuster), John (Mary Ellen Bruemmer Lansford) and Marcia (Bill Heberle) along with many treasured in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and neighbors whose lives were touched by her kindness and friendship.

Mary was preceded in death by a younger brother, James, who died in infancy.

A dedicated member of her community, Mary was a longtime member of the German Cultural Society, St. Simon the Apostle Church Madonna Guild, St. Cathrine Laboure Catholic Church, The Red Hat Society and the Gravois Kiwanis Club. She believed in giving back and found great joy in supporting causes and organizations that brought people together.

Mary enjoyed sewing, reading, traveling, and expressing her creativity in many ways. More than any hobby or interest, however, Mary was a people-first person. She treasured time with family and friends and possessed a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and loved. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing a conversation, or simply being present, Mary never missed an opportunity to help someone in need.

Her legacy is one of generosity, compassion, and unwavering love for others. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at St. George Catholic Church in Linn with Rev. Colin Franklin as the Celebrant. Inurnment will follow in St. George Parish Cemetery Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause Mary felt reflected her lifelong desire to help others.

Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Missouri (897-2214)  www.mortonchapel.com