Mary C. Lauderdale

Mary C. Lauderdale, a beacon of love, faith, and unwavering strength, was born on September 9, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois. She journeyed through life with grace, charm, a loving and steadfast dedication to Family, and an unmistakable passion for connecting with those around her. Mary’s trademark warm smiles and big hugs were easily offered to everyone she met. After a life well-lived, Mary departed this world peacefully on January 31, 2026, at the age of 89, in Germantown, Wisconsin, surrounded by love.

Mary was the heart of her family. She cherished and loved her family above everything, truly living up to her calling as a loving wife and mother. Her unwavering support and encouragement as well as unconditional love propelled her husband and children to become the best versions of themselves.

In her storied career, Mary embraced a multitude of roles, from Lumberyard Manager to being the memorable Pennzoil Girl at a Chevy Dealership. Her time as a Candy Store Clerk and Boston Store Bridal Consultant exemplified her deep-seated commitment not only to her work but more importantly to those she served. Each employment opportunity allowed her to foster connections within her community, reflecting her belief that every interaction was an opportunity to spread kindness and compassion.

Throughout her life, Mary was the embodiment of love and support. This was most evident in her remarkable marriage of 63 years to her soulmate, James Lauderdale II. Inside their identical wedding rings was inscribed “Strength, Love, Hope, Trust, Faith”. Together, they lived by these sacred principles and celebrated the jubilations of life while navigating its hurdles as an inseparable team. Their mutual respect, tenderness, and admiration inspired all who had the fortune to witness their bond, a beautiful testament to everlasting love that lit the way from their first date to their final days together.

Mary's spirit was not solely anchored in her beloved family but also deeply rooted in community service. Her remarkable sense of purpose directed her towards various volunteer efforts, from her church to the Germantown Senior Center, and even as an Election Day Poll Worker in Glendale and Germantown. These endeavors transcended mere obligation for Mary, morphing instead into heartfelt expressions of her intrinsic desire to uplift everyone around her, an endeavor for which she was widely recognized.

Mary cherished her involvement in the Clovernook Garden Club, where her passion for plants and gardening flourished, bringing color and life into her surroundings. For 18 treasured years, she found joy and companionship in Joey, her little Shih Tzu, whose loyalty offered solace during Jim’s busy work hours after all three of their children had left the nest.

As a deeply spiritual woman, God was the center of Mary's life. Each morning, she and Jim began their day with prayer and reflection, drawing wisdom from texts like The Daily Word, Daily Inspiration, and Mornings with Jesus. Her devotion often extended beyond her household, as she maintained a prayer list for those in need, a testament to her compassionate heart.

Mary's legacy will forever be cherished by her family: son, James (Karen) Lauderdale III; son, John Lauderdale; and daughter, Virginia (Joe) Klamecki. She was a proud grandmother to Bernie (Gina) Klamecki, Jessica (Austin) Kosmal, as well as Stephanie (Steve) Jones, and Nik (Sara) Lauderdale. She delighted in the joyful presence of her great-grandchildren, Harvey, Evelyn, Joey, and Henry. And she will be dearly missed by her sister-in-law Paula Kunkel, brother-in-law Ken Kunkel, nieces, great-niece and nephews, and many wonderful cousins.

Mary joins her beloved husband, James B. Lauderdale II; first grandchildren, Thomas Ian Lauderdale and Theresa Elizabeth Klamecki; brother Vern Wilhelm; and parents, Steve Howard and Virginia Wilhelm in eternal rest. She leaves a legacy of love, compassion, and community service that will resonate through the lives she touched.

Visitation will be held at the Wisconsin Memorial Park - Chapel of the Chimes, 13235 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, on March 13, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Mary’s church, Spiritual Living of Greater Milwaukee, 400 S. 91st St., Milwaukee, WI 53214 would be appreciated.

In the tapestry of life, Mary wove threads of love, faith, and compassion that will remain forever vibrant in the hearts of those blessed to have known her.