Mary Jo Weaver

Mary Jo Weaver was born on October 16, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph and Evelyn Modjeski. At the age of five, she moved with her family to Hammond, Indiana, where she was raised and educated. She graduated from Morton High School in 1958 and later attended Purdue University and Calumet College, earning an associate degree in Business.

In her early adulthood, Mary Jo was briefly married to Robert Weaver, who preceded her in death.

Throughout her life, Mary Jo held a variety of bookkeeping positions: Cousins Jewelry Store in Hammond and Hunter Construction. While these roles provided her livelihood, her true passion was beautifying her surroundings. She devoted countless hours to gardening and landscaping throughout Northwest Indiana, transforming spaces with care and creativity. Through her volunteerism and continued education, she became a Master Gardener and was later honored with the organization’s highest recognition, the Golden Shovel Award.

Mary Jo loved to travel and cherished the experiences she shared with her niece Heather, whom she often took along on her journeys. Together they visited Hawaii, California, and many other memorable destinations.

Later in life, Mary Jo became actively involved in TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a national organization through which she formed lasting friendships across Northwest Indiana and throughout the United States. She was deeply engaged and elected to numerous leadership roles, reflecting her commitment and warm spirit.

In May, Mary Jo’s health began to decline, and she was admitted to Great Lakes Nursing Home, where she resided until her passing.

Mary Jo is survived by her sister Donna (George) Bobal, her niece Heather (Patrick) Laws, great-nieces, Elizabeth, Katie, Theresa and great-nephews, John, Josh and Tommy. Several cousins, special friends Carolyn Jackson, Pam Howe and Louisa Kotrozou all of whom will remember her for her generosity, love of nature, and the joy she brought into their lives.

Visitation Tuesday, December 23, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Interment at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery—Calumet City, IL.

For further information please contact 219-322-7300 or visit www.SMITSFH.com