Mary Lou Ewing, 88, passed away at 1:20 p.m. Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at Bethalto Care Center.

Born Apr. 8, 1927 in Alton, she was one of 3 children of James and Tecla (Hollingshead) Basden. James later married Lena Smith and they had 11 more, for a total of 14 children.

Survivors include 3 daughters, Donna (Dan) Wathern of Moro, Joyce Grayson of Jacksonville, Ill., and Patty (Mark) Kivett of Alton; and 14 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother, Lena Smith Basden; a daughter, Carol Dole; and her husband, Emil D. Ewing.

According to her wishes, there will be no public services.

Professional services entrusted to Paynic Home for Funerals, with online guestbook available at www.paynicfh.com