Mary Evelyn (Smelser) Houston

Mary Evelyn Houston, 89, of Belvidere, IL, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Surrounded by her family. She was born December 9, 1936, in Russellville, Alabama. The daughter of Oscar and Ida (Moore) Smelser. She worked for Zenith Electronics in Chicago for 12 years. Mary was a member of Belvidere First Assembly of God for many years. There she led countless Bible studies and helped with the B1 Food Pantry. She always made sure everyone was well fed. She also ministered services at Sheffield Meadows in Belvidere. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, quilting, and spending time with her family. She is loved and will be missed by her children, Laura Vinson, Cynthia McLynn, Bobby Keller, Delores Keller, Karen (Mark) Osborne; grandchildren, David Dane Stancil, Lashell Stancil, David B. Stancil, Tammy Adkinson, Theresa Sharp, Lorie Ann Patel, Sheila Keller, Jimmy Ray Parkhill Jr, Robert (Ember) Feltner, Jake McLynn, Jason (Amber) Selsing, Ashley (Curtis) Kettner. Patricia (Bob) Clark, Faith (Mark) Mellnick; daughter-in-law, Sheryl Keller; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Elsie Ohlund and Lurlie Willingham. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, children, Mary Jane Stancil; Jessie Keller, Jimmy Keller; son-in-law Dan McLynn; grandson, Michael Keller. There will be a visitation Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at Belvidere First Assembly of God in Belvidere, IL. A celebration of life will begin at 12:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the B1 Food Pantry.