Mary Lemny Goddard

Mary Lemny Goddard, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her family after valiantly striving to recover from a stroke she suffered two and a half years ago. Born on June 24, 1931, in Winnipeg, Canada, Mary lived a life full of warmth, grace, and love. Mary was the treasured daughter of Helen and Harry Lemny, who instilled in her a love for life and a passion for dance that would shape her future. Her sister, Francis Obrect, and her devoted husband, Edward Dean Goddard, preceded her in death, leaving behind cherished memories. Mary and Ed's love story began at a University of Illinois dance, where Ed's talent as a dance instructor and Mary's enthusiasm for dancing drew them together. They married on January 29, 1955, and shared 53 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they raised four sons—James, Daniel, Steven, and Mark—instilling in them the values of family, joy, and perseverance. Their family grew to include 11 grandchildren—Karlie, Deanna, Dmitry, Veronica, and Jackie—and three great-grandchildren, Ethan and Cyrus, who were the light of Mary's life. Known for her elegance on and off the dance floor, Mary regularly appeared alongside Ed on his cable dance show, "Let's Dance," captivating audiences with their graceful routines. Outside of dancing, Mary found joy in playing Bridge and Scrabble, and she was renowned for her culinary skills, bringing people together with her delicious meals. Mary's legacy is one of love, resilience, and a zest for life. She celebrated each moment, whether through the rhythm of a dance, the laughter shared over a card game, or the fulfillment of nurturing her family. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her and loved her. A service to honor and celebrate Mary's life will be held on September 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Operation Smile in Mary's memory, an organization she held close to her heart. Mary Lemny Goddard's life was a testament to the joy of dancing through life with grace, love, and an enduring spirit. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.