Mary Lee Fagan (Samsel)

Mary Lee Fagan (née Samsel), 86, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Mary was born on February 20, 1940, and grew up in Waverly, Iowa, until she made Wisconsin her home, where she built lasting friendships and created countless cherished memories.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Fagan, who passed away in 2002, along with other adored family members and dear friends.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her children, Mike, Kelly (Ryan), and Jody; her seven cherished grandchildren: Ryan, Anthony, Andrew, Jessica, Lauren, Bailey, and Brooke; the spouses and partners who became cherished members of our family: Austin, Chantel, Isaiah, Nicole, and Susanna; and her eight deeply loved great-grandchildren, who filled her heart with immeasurable joy.

Above all else, Mary loved her family. Being a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother brought her life's greatest happiness. She celebrated every milestone, treasured every visit, and found her greatest joy in simply being surrounded by those she loved.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. As a devoted member of Layton Avenue Baptist Church, Mary found comfort, purpose, and many lifelong friendships. She especially enjoyed her time with the church's WWW ministry and the fellowship it brought.

Mary also found joy in life's simple blessings, especially watching the birds and wildlife outside her condo. During her final days at Zilber Family Hospice, being surrounded by nature once again brought her comfort and peace.

Mary will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and, above all, the unconditional love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created and the lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday , July 27 at Layton Avenue Baptist Church, 9600 W Layton Avenue in Greenfield, Wisconsin. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service. Light refreshments will be served as family and friends gather to celebrate Mary's life and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Mary's honor to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or Zilber Family Hospice, whose compassionate care brought comfort and dignity during her final days.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who loved and cared for Mary throughout her life. Her unwavering faith was the foundation of her life, and we take comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the loving presence of the Lord. Though she is no longer with us, the love she shared so generously will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.