Mary Ann Keough

Mary Ann Keough (née Nicolay) passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026 in Saratoga Springs, New York, fittingly on St. Patrick’s Day, a nod to her strong Irish roots.

She was born December 23, 1937 in St. Louis, Missouri to Arthur Dean Nicolay and Gertrude (“Peggy”) O’Neil Nicolay.

Mary Ann spent her early years moving with her family before settling in Libertyville, Illinois, where she made her home for nearly the rest of her life and where she always felt she belonged.

She married the love of her life, Raymond Keough, on May 4, 1963. He preceded her in death in 2020.

Mary Ann is survived by her daughter, Constance Whitesell, and son-in-law, Jim Whitesell, whom she loved dearly. Jim was a steady, loving presence and a true source of strength to both Mary Ann and Connie, especially in her final years. She was also the mother of Christopher, who passed away at just under two years old, a loss she carried throughout her life. She is survived by her sister, Sara Nicolay, and her nephew, Drew Paul, and was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Neil Nicolay.  Mary Ann had several beloved nieces and nephews on the Keough side, including her sweet Goddaughter, Beverly Nickelson.

Mary Ann was known for her sharp wit, great laugh, and unmistakable sense of style. She was funny, sarcastic, and unapologetically herself.  She had a natural eye for decorating and took pride in creating a beautiful home alongside her husband Ray. She loved fashion, never passed up a good trip to TJ Maxx, and spent many summers by the pool with her girlfriends working on a legendary tan. She also appreciated a well-made Manhattan, always with a twist and never a cherry.

A loyal Catholic, Mary Ann’s faith remained important to her throughout her life.

In the last 15 months of her life, Mary Ann lived at Peregrine Senior Living at Clifton Park, New York, where she was near Connie and Jim and cared for by a team whose compassion and dedication meant a great deal to her family. The family is also grateful for the kindness shown by the staff at Saratoga Hospital during her final days.

A celebration of life for Mary Ann and her husband Raymond will be held this summer in Libertyville, Illinois. Details will be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make online gifts in memory of Mary Ann Keough to:

The Dementia Society of America – www.DementiaSociety.org/donate

Or The Society of St. Vincent de Paul – https://svdpstlouis.org/donate, where your donation provides direct help to the poor in the St. Louis community, a cause Mary Ann and Ray supported for many years.