Mary Alice Peterson, 85, of Grain Valley, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, surrounded by love.
Mary was born on February 2, 1941, in Versailles, Missouri, to Roy C. Merriott and Dorothy Caviness. She spent her life devoted to family, work, and the simple joys that brought her comfort and happiness.
Mary enjoyed reading mystery novels and watching old movies and Hallmark films. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she was rarely far from her beloved cat, Muncheez, who brought her much companionship.
Mary was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She worked at Sears for more than 10 years and later served over 20 years with the Internal Revenue Service before retiring.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Merriott and Dorothy Wright, and her husband, Jimmy Peterson, daughter, Shelley Stone.
Mary is survived by her loving children: daughter Pamela (Jerome) Burgess; son Shelby (Joyce) Kistner and daughter, Candice Montgomery; brother, Steve Wright. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren Tammy, TJ, Danelle, Elicia, Kirk, Ashley, CJ, James, Jessica, and Chris, along with twenty great-grandchildren who were the pride and joy of her life.
Mary will be remembered for her quiet strength, her love of family, and the warmth she shared with those who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-4441