Mary Ellen (Douglas) Hennemann

It is with deep love and remembrance that we celebrate the life of Mary Ellen (Douglas) Hennemann, who passed away peacefully at home on September 23, 2025, at the age of 80. She was born in St. Louis, MO on April 21, 1945, the daughter of Alma Marie Phelps and Billie “Jack” Douglas.  She was raised by her mom and stepfather, James “Jim” Ford Ricketts of Glen Allen, MO.  

A woman of remarkable spirit and strength, Mary lived her life with boundless energy, curiosity and determination.  Her passion for art, history and music infused her days with beauty and meaning, while her love of travel opened her heart and mind to the wonders of the world.  

She was a creative soul, whether tending to her flowers or breathing new life into an antique find.   A lover of nature in all its forms, she found peace and joy while shelling along various beaches, as she was a resident of Florida for over twenty years.

Known for her many adventures, she often brought smiles and laughter to others with her colorful stories.  She faced life’s challenges with perseverance, always meeting adversity with courage.  A hard worker by nature, she never shied away from a task, and her drive inspired those who knew her.  

Mary was also a lifelong and avid fan of the baseball St. Louis Cardinals and the Dallas Cowboys.   She also loved Saturdays filled with college football.  

She was a home decorator, bridal shop owner, bed and breakfast owner and retired as a flight attendant.  Her legacy is one of creativity, adventure, hard work, resilience and joy.  A life well lived and deeply loved.

Mary is survived by her son, Todd Hennemann and grand dog Alma of Cape Girardeau and daughter, Tara Hennemann of Marble Hill.  She is also survived by four siblings:  Sue (Rodger) Yount of Barnhart, MO; Dodi (David) Conrad of Glen Allen, MO; Bill (Patti) Ricketts of Marble Hill, MO and Jimmy Ricketts of Glen Allen, MO. Mary had numerous nieces and nephews that lovingly called her ReRe.  She loved her family passionately and always looked forward to time together.  

Mary was preceded in death by her mother, father and stepfather.  She was also preceded in death by her older sister, Jackie MacKay.  

A celebration of life service will be held at Glenallen Fellowship Church on November 15, 2025 at 1:00 P.M.