Mary Jo Freer

Freer, Mary Jo (nee Lee), age 90, of Maplewood, MN. Born August 15, 1935, passed away November 30, 2025.

Raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, Mary Jo attended grade school at St. Luke’s Elementary School and graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy in St. Paul. As a child, she loved ice skating, sledding, watching football with her father, hanging out with her sisters and nieces and nephews.

She was a faithful Catholic and a longtime member of Church of St. Peter, in North St. Paul, where she assisted with the Fall Festival and funeral church luncheons for many years. She retired from Lohman's Religious Store after working there for many years.

Mary Jo was a very devoted mother, aunt and friend. After the death of her husband, Darrel, she raised her four children and worked outside the home to support them.

She was proud of her children and their accomplishments and loved to spend time with them. Family gatherings were something she treasured.

Mary Jo also loved being with her extended family and often attended her niece and nephew’s weddings, graduations, and other special events. Before Covid, she was active at the Maplewood Community Center, where she participated in water aerobics and walking.

She loved animals, especially her devoted Sheltie, Jake. She also loved children and did daycare for family and friends for many years. She could never pass up the opportunity to hold a baby.

Mary Jo was a beloved mother and friend and will be greatly missed.

Preceded in death by husband Darrel; parents Tom and Ruth; sisters Ruth, Pat, Vernone, Sharon. Survived by children Melissa, Pam, Tom (Laura), Charlie; sister Sheila; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation and funeral will be held on June 12, 2026, at the Church of St. Peter, North St. Paul. Visitation will be at 10 am, followed by a Memorial Mass at 11 am. Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery, North St. Paul and a luncheon will follow at the church.

Mary Jo loved bright colors and laughter. We ask that you consider wearing bright colors and bring your wonderful stories to share as we celebrate her life.