Mary Colleen Garrett, 69, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.

She was born in Dover, Delaware, on September 13, 1955, to Robert and Barbara Garrett. Because her father served as a pilot in the United States Air Force, Mary Colleen grew up in many different places, including Hawaii and Texas, before her family eventually settled in Illinois.

She was one of five children and shared a special closeness with her siblings. She is preceded in death by parents, Robert and Barbara; her brother, Mike; sister, Cheryl, and sister-in-law, Sandy.

She is survived by her brothers, Tom Garrett and Joe (Carmen) Garrett of Decatur, IL; her sons, Jason (Angela) Hamm of Sherman, IL, and Justin Hamm (Steven Perry) of Springfield, IL; and her grandchildren, Avery and Ryan, who were truly the joy of her life.

Mary Colleen worked many jobs throughout her life, but the role that meant the most to her was nursing. Caring for others came naturally to her, and her kindness and compassion touched many lives.

Those who knew Mary Colleen will remember her as a free spirit with an open heart. She had a wonderful sense of humor that could brighten any room, and she never missed a chance to make someone laugh. She was quick to love, slow to judge, and always embraced people as they were. She loved animals dearly and found her greatest happiness in time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.

No services are scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Animal Protective League of Springfield or WILD Canine dog rescue.