Mary Virgina Anesi

Mary Virgina Billington Anesi Passed Away on January 3rd, 2026 at La Plata Nursing Home at the age of 101.

Mary is the Daughter of George and Florence Billington. Mary is preceded in death by her Parents, three Brothers and two Sisters, Husband Sielio Anesi, and longtime companion Garold Hughes.

Mary lived her entire life in Adair County. The majority of those years were in Novinger, MO. Mary attended school in a one-room country schoolhouse until the family moved to Novinger, MO where she graduated from Novinger High School. Mary at the age of 18, moved to Kirksville and rented a small apartment while working at the “Five & Dime”.

Mary Billington and Sielio Anesi were married on April 1st, 1944. They settled in Novinger, MO and she became a familiar face at Anesi Meat Market. Mary then took a job at McGraw Manufacturing where she worked for 20 years.

Mary loved nature; being outdoors, tending to flowers, gardening, preserving food that she and Grandma Billlington grew. With a love for feathered friends, bird houses and feeders were always in her yard. Mary lovingly cared for every animal they raised. Mary always took the time to feed and water any stray dog or cat. Mary has always been a compassionate caregiver to family and friends, often putting herself last.

Mary is survived by several Nieces and Nephews through five generations; including Larry Billington (Karen) of Brashear, MO, Rick Billington (Melissa) of Kirksville, MO, Shirley Bailey of Huntly, IL, and Marilyn Argent of Kirksville, MO.

Visitation is at Playle-Rimer-Millard Family Chapels in Kirksville, MO on January 10th, 2026 from Noon to 1:00 PM.

Funeral Service at 1:00pm led by Pastor Coonfield. Hymns of choosing are Precious Memories, The Old Rugged Cross, and How Great Thou Art.

Burial will be followed at Novinger Cemetery in Novinger, MO.

Bearers are Rick Billington, Larry Billington, Gary Wolter, Michael Woodall, Tom Woodall, and Larry Sayer. 

Honorary Bearers are Rodgers Hughes and Dennis Hughes.

In Lieu of flowers, donations will be given to the La Plata Nursing Home and Hospice of North East Missouri.