Mary Jurisic

Mary (Marija) Jurisic, fondly known as MJ, passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 79 at home. She left this world the way she lived in it - surrounded by kindness and love.

Born on June 29, 1946 in Slavonia, Croatia, she emigrated and arrived to the United States in 1958 as an only child with her parents, and began her new life here in Chicago. She grew up with a deep appreciation of hard work, family, commitment, generosity, and above all else, compassion. Throughout her life, she passionately carried those values with her and passed them on to anyone connected to her. To have known her, was to have loved her.

She married the love of her life, John (Ivica) Jurisic in 1976 and is survived by him and her children Anthony (Juliann), Jasna (Mark), and Ivana (Michael), her grandchildren that she loved so dearly, Anthony (A.J.) and Alexander (Al), and many relatives and friends who were fortunate to be part of her life. She was preceded in death by her father, Dujo Marosh and mother, Danica Marosh, whom she lovingly cared for throughout their life.

Mary was a dedicated employee at Mercy Hospital in the Medical Records Department for much of her career. She fostered some of Chicago's greatest medical doctors by nurturing them in their residency, and found deep satisfaction in serving patients and the hospital community. Mary loved: music, art, history, traveling, shopping, funny movies, and love stories. She was a brilliant cook, though preferring desserts herself, and created countless memories at her table. She adored all animals, especially her family pets, and received their adoration in return. She was a child of the Spring and cherished flowers, especially lilies and lilacs, found beauty in everything, and could heal you with a cup of her coffee.

Above all else, Mary was a dedicated mother, wife, and family matriarch. Her life's dedication was to her children: supporting, protecting, and providing for them. To her husband, creating a partnership that transcends lifetimes. Her greatest joy was caring for others, whether through a home-cooked meal, a thoughtful call, or simply sitting quietly and listening. She had a gift for making people feel safe, welcomed, and understood. To have known her, was to have been loved by her.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the years we shared with her and the love she leaves behind. Her presence will be missed every day, and her legacy will live on in all who knew her.

Memorial services for Mary will be held at a later date.