Mary Ann (Stack) Faith

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mary Ann Stack Faith, a cherished mother, devoted wife, beloved grandmother, and steadfast friend to all who were fortunate to know her. Mary Ann's journey came to a gentle close on August 27, 2023.

Mary Ann was born on May 30, 1940, to John Michael Stack and Salvatrice “Grace” Siracusa Stack in Chicago, IL. Mary Ann had one younger sibling, John Michael Stack Jr. who passed in 2010.

In June of 1963, Mary Ann met Brian Faith, an immigrant from Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, in a bar in Northlake, IL. Their love grew quickly, and a mere ten months later, on April 25, 1964, they exchanged vows at Immaculate Conception Church in Elmhurst, IL. This year, Brian and Mary Ann celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.

1965 marked the beginning of their journey as parents with Brian hard at work & Mary Ann staying home to raise and nurture their four children. In those early days of marriage, she would pile all the kids in the family car, drop Brian off at work, run errands throughout the day with children in tow and then pick Brian up at the end of the workday, only to jump in the car herself to work as a server at multiple places throughout the early years just to make ends meet.  Mary Ann eventually settled into a full time position at Patrick Engineering, where she worked for 19 years.  Her work ethic spilled over into the home as well.  She implemented strict expectations with the kids, starting with learning to make your bed on your 5th birthday and join the rotation chart for chores.  Mary Ann did not want anything handed to her or her family. She instilled a great work ethic in all of us.

Beyond her immediate family, Mary Ann's caring  nature extended both far and wide. Her true gift to the world was how she delivered a story.  More often than not, these stories were about something funny that happened to her or a ridiculous situation she had found herself in.  Her infectious laugh, smile, and humor will be greatly missed.

Throughout her life, Mary Ann personified resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity. She lost both parents at a young age and took on the role as guardian of her brother when he was 17.  As a two-time breast cancer survivor, her strong faith and positive outlook on life persevered throughout.  She serves as an inspiration, reminding us that even in the toughest of times, a guiding light persists.

Mary Ann leaves behind her devoted husband, Brian; her loving children, Brian (Sara) Faith, Kevin Faith, Mike Faith, and Maggie (Drew) Ryan; her 8 cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Kyle, Emma, Eilee, Grace, Packey, Connor, and Alison; and countless friends & co-workers and who were touched by her warmth and kindness.

Please join us in celebrating her wonderful life Saturday morning, September 2, 2023 at St. Petronille’s Parish, located at 420 Glenwood Avenue, Glen Ellyn 60137. There will be a Memorial Service from 10:00 - 11:00 with a Funeral Mass to follow from 11:00 – 12:00.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations may be made in Mary Ann's name to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, a cause dear to her heart.

As we grieve the loss of an extraordinary woman, let us also celebrate the joy she brought into our lives and the profound impact she had on us all. May her spirit thrive in the shared memories and boundless love she bestowed upon us.