10/13/2026
Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the passing of our dear friend, Mary Jason, founder of Mother's Grief, now known as Mother's Unique, and a YWCA Woman of Distinction.
Mary was an extraordinary woman who turned her own personal heartbreak into a mission of love, compassion, and service to others.
In 2017, Mary brought a small group of mothers who had experienced the unimaginable loss of a child to YWCA for monthly gatherings. What began as a place for grieving mothers to find comfort, friendship, and understanding grew into Mother's Unique, an organization providing emotional support and direct assistance to mothers facing the loss of a child.
Mary understood that no mother should have to walk that difficult journey alone. She created a welcoming community where mothers could share their stories, honor their children, and find strength in one another.
Mother’s Unique, under Mary’s leadership, established the annual White Dove Release ceremony at Kilian Park in Alton, a beautiful and moving opportunity for families to remember children who are forever loved and missed.
Mary's generosity extended throughout our community. She was always willing to step forward, lend a helping hand, and serve wherever she saw a need.
YWCA was proud to recognize Mary as a Woman of Distinction, honoring her remarkable compassion, leadership, and commitment to others. We are especially grateful that she chose YWCA as a home for her support group and that we had the privilege of watching her vision grow.
Mary leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, kindness, and the extraordinary difference one caring person can make.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Mary's family, friends, and the many mothers whose lives she touched.
Thank you, Mary, for sharing your heart with our community. Your kindness, your leadership, and your love will never be forgotten.
With love and gratitude,
Your YWCA Family
