Mary Ojile October 1, 1930 - January 30, 2026

Mary Genevieve Ojile

Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Mary Genevieve Ojile, 95, of St. Louis, Missouri, entered into eternal rest on January 30, 2026. Born on October 1, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, to Syrian immigrants Michael and Adele (Cueter) Kilo, Mary grew up deeply rooted in faith, family, and the rich traditions of her heritage.  Her family later settled in St. Louis, the city she would lovingly call home for the rest of her life.  Mary attended McKinley High School; however, she stepped away from her education to care for her ailing parents and to help support the household.  Her early determination shaped a lifetime defined by service and devotion to others.  She worked at Minx Modes dress manufacturer and later as a Bell Telephone operator, eventually contributing part‑time to her husband’s businesses.

Mary was a devoted parishioner of St. Raymond Maronite Catholic Church, where she volunteered throughout the years.  Above all, she embraced her many roles with love and humility:  devoted wife of 63 years, daughter, sister, mother, sitti (grandmother), and cherished friend.  Mary lived with a servant’s heart, always putting the needs of others before her own.

Her passions were simple but profound—baking and cooking beloved Lebanese and Syrian dishes, generously sharing hospitality, gardening, walking for exercise, and delighting in every moment spent with her grandchildren.  Mary was the joyful heart of countless family gatherings, which she hosted with ease, warmth, and abundant love.  Her gratitude, radiant smile, and quick laughter— especially at her late husband’s unforgettable jokes — made her a source of light to all who knew her. Her genuine interest in others fostered deep and lasting friendships throughout her life.

Mary is  survived by her 5 children: Joseph M. Ojile (Marianne), Christine M. Ojile, Victoria A. Fike (David), Ann M. Ojile, and Elaine M. Simon (George); her 12 grandchildren:  Joseph P. Ojile (Marisa), Olivia Thomas (Jake), Samuel Ojile (Margaret), Sophie Aubuchon (Stephen), Jack Ojile, Maria Alvarado (Juan), Theresa Simon, Sarah Simon, Caroline Simon, Rebecca Simon, Elizabeth Simon, and Samuel Fike; her 7 great‑grandchildren: Rex and Johnny Ojile; Simon and Margo Thomas; Hank and Josie Aubuchon; and Isabella Alvarado.  She also leaves behind her siblings: John Kilo (Susan), Joe Kilo, Georgette Kilo, sister‑in‑law Lurice Kilo, and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.  Mary is preceded in death by her parents Michael and Adele Kilo, her beloved husband Joseph E. Ojile, and her brothers:  Charles Kilo (June), Lou Kilo, and Mitch Kilo.

Services:  A Christian funeral service and burial for Mary was held for the family on Saturday, February 7^th at St. Raymond – St. Elizabeth Church in Crestwood, MO, with a burial at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to  St. Raymond Maronite Catholic Cathedral,  Giddo Simon Ministries, or  to the Missouri Botanical Garden.