In Memory of

Class of 1956
Jan 09, 1939 - Jun 29, 2026

Mary E. Cott, 87, Maquoketa, Iowa, and formerly of Ulysses, passed away peacefully Monday morning, June 29, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Mary Elaine Ellis was born January 9, 1939, in Meade, Kan., to Lester William and Elsie Marguerite (Holdeman) Ellis.

She graduated from high school in Johnson, Kan., and then attended Fort Hays State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Her education prepared her for a lifelong calling to teach, nurture, and encourage others.

Mary began her career teaching elementary school in Garden City, Kan., and continued teaching until her daughter Candy was born, at which time she devoted herself to full-time parenting. When her youngest daughter Kim started school, Mary returned to the classroom and taught sixth grade for many years. She was a dedicated educator who cared deeply for her students and took pride in helping children grow.

Mary was a very creative person who enjoyed trying her hand at many crafts. She found joy in making beautiful things and in sharing her talents with those around her. She was also known for her generous spirit and her willingness to lend a helping hand. Mary served as a room mother and 4-H leader, and she was always ready to care for neighbors and family members whenever they needed support.

She lived in Ulysses, most of her life until moving to Maquoketa in 2022 to be near her daughter. While in Ulysses, she enjoyed the companionship of many friends at Grant County Senior Center and truly missed them when she left. Even in her later years, Mary remained devoted to the people and pets she loved, including her beloved cat, Kat.

Those left to honor Mary's memory include her daughters, Candace (Mark) Schneweis, Maquoketa, Iowa, and Kimberly Graber, Longmont, Colo.; stepdaughters: Danita Pearson, Russellville, Ark., and Debbie (Rick) Woodbridge, Ardmore, Okla.; six grandchildren: Paige, Collin, Reece, Ian, Noah and Eli; three step-sons: Cade, Logan and Jay; one great-granddaughter, Theia; and two step-great-granddaughters: Addalynn and Layla; brothers: Sam (Ila) Ellis, Winnemucca, Nev., and Doc (Vicky) Ellis, Richfield, Kan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Lou Ellis; and sister Lola Batson.

A memorial celebration of her life with burial will take place at a later date in Richfield, Kan. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to your local animal shelter in Mary's name.