Homewood’s oldest resident died on Monday, June 1. Supercentenarian Mary Cantway, at 111, was the fourth oldest resident in the state at the time of her death.

At her 111th birthday, held by friends at Balagio Ristorante in Homewood, Cantway demurred when asked about the reason for her longevity. But she said she had been active all her life, well into her advanced years, which she acknowledged might have helped.

Homewood Mayor Rich Hofeld was a devoted fan of Cantway and had for years helped her celebrate her birthdays. His wife, Marilyn, loves to bake, and the Hofelds would sometimes share a batch of cookies with Cantway. 

“I’m very glad we had her as grand marshal the parade last year,” Hofeld said, referring to the village’s annual 4th of July parade. “She sat there like the queen of England, waving.”

Hofeld said he visited Cantway one last time when he heard her health was failing. He noted that until very recently she had remained mentally sharp and continued to do crossword puzzles regularly.

Elaine Egdorf, founder of the Homewood Historical Society, said she had fond memories of Cantway.

“She was always delightful company. I enjoyed sitting with her on her back porch,” she said. She noted that Cantway often brought a keen wit to any interaction. “Mary was a remarkable woman. She swam daily until she was 95. When she turned 100 we had her present a program on her life for the historical society. We had a big birthday cake with her photo on it.  When she arrived I told Mary how beautiful she looked. Fancy top, taffeta flowered skirt and silver shoes.”

The village posted a statement on its Facebook page with news of Cantway’s death, noting that she had been a resident since 1957.

“We will always remember Mary’s incredible spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. We are grateful for all the birthdays we celebrated with her and share the story of a woman whose longevity, warmth and spirit touched our community. Mary Cantway will always hold a special place in Homewood’s history.”

According to her obituary, Cantway lived in the same house in Homewood for more than 69 years.

She is survived by her daughter Linda Sue Cantway-Cook of Homewood, who was also her only caregiver for many years.

Cantway’s first job was with Swift and Company in 1933 at the Chicago World’s Fair. In 1970, she began her career as an admitting clerk at South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest and retired at the age of 75.

She was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church of Homewood for over 68 years.

Family and friends celebrated her life with a living funeral when she was 110, so her family said there will not be a service now, “just a gathering at her home under her favorite oak tree” and a private interment. The family suggests donations may be made to her favorite charity, the Salvation Army.

Related stories:

• Homewood’s supercentenarian celebrates turning 111 with friends, family (Oct. 10, 2025).
• Age is just a number to Mary Cantway (Oct. 1, 2024).
• Homewood to offer birthday greetings as Mary Cantway becomes supercentenarian (Sept. 24, 2024).
• Happy birthday, Mary Cantway (Sept. 30, 2020).
• Friends gather to give 105-year-old Mary Cantway happy birthday (Oct. 3, 2019).
• Swimming, exercise help Mary Cantway, 103, stay fit (Oct. 29, 2017).