Mary Susan Tarr

February 4, 1941 - February 9, 2021

Mary Susan Tarr, 80, of Carbondale, passed away February 9, 2021, with her family by her side. She was born to the late Arthur Thomas Schmelter and Evelyn (Arisman), February 4, 1941, in Springfield, IL. Mary Susan graduated from Ursuline Academy in 1959 and received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southern Illinois University 1963 & was a lifetime member of the Alumni Association. She married James E. Tarr on June 15, 1963, and they lived together in Carbondale for 58 years. Mary Susan is survived by her husband, James Tarr; four children: Bridget Gallagher (Dave) of Cincinnati, OH; Christine Tarr of Palatine, IL; Stephen Tarr (Kim) of Anna, TX and Daniel Tarr of Dallas, TX. She is also survived by nine loving grandchildren. Mary Susan was a dedicated educator and was the Librarian at Unity Point School for many years until retirement. She loved reading mystery novels, was active in the Beta Sigma Phi sorority, and was a passionate crafter. She created her own quilts, note pads, her own Christmas labels and countless other cards & creations. Mary Susan was immensely proud of her family, and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories. Her love of sweets was legendary – often evoking the donut to convey a message of positivity: “Look for the donut, not the hole!” Funeral Services with Mass for Mary Susan Tarr will be Thursday, February 18, 2021 at 11:00 am in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Murdale Gardens of Memory. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the hour of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in support of St. Francis Catholic church or a charity of the donor’s choice. Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.