Mary Jane Josephine Babin was born May 11, 1923 to Elizabeth Fanselow Waldau Babin and William Babin at home on Lawrence Ave. in Chicago.
Mary Jane died peacefully on July 25, 2021 in her son’s home in Elk Grove Village.
Mary Jane married Wendell “Van” Startup on January 25, 1947 and from this union, Jeanne Marie Startup was born on August 12, 1948.
Mary Jane married Arnold E. Austin on December 10, 1960 and from this union, James Robert Austin was born on September 11, 1961.
Mary Jane attended Lakeview High School and graduated in 1941. She attended Endeavor Presbyterian Church and later served faithfully at Cuyler Covenant Church and Glenview Covenant Church.
Mary Jane met and accepted Jesus as her personal Lord and Savior and served Him faithfully.
Mary Jane loved to work, volunteer, and serve others.
Mary Jane spent the last 19 years living at Covenant Village in Northbrook, first in independent living and then at Axelson Manor and throughout the time she volunteered as much as possible.
Mary Jane is survived by:
Daughter: Jeanne Anderson of Addison, IL and son James (Kristen) Austin of Elk Grove Village, IL.
Grandchildren: Jay Anderson III, Melinda (David) Ficarra, and Mark Anderson all of Addison, IL.
Great Grandchildren: Edward Ficarra stationed in Great Falls, MT, Ryan Ficarra, Abigail Ficarra, and Josephine Ficarra of Addison, IL.
Niece: Joyce (Lewis) Mantels, Nephew: Robert (Elena) Jones, and several Great Nieces and Nephews.
Preceded in death by spouse Arnold E. Austin; parents Elizabeth Babin, William Babin; Sister Ruth Jones, Brother in Law Cliff Jones, Son in Law Jay Anderson.
Memorial Contributions to Covenant Living Benevolent Fund.
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