Mary J. Bierman, 83, of Cherry Valley, IL died Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at Rosewood Care Center in Rockford. Mary was born February 1, 1931 to Walter and Anna Gibson. She graduated from Lyndon High School Class of 1949 and attended Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. She married Leland Bierman in 1953. After his years of Army service, they settled in Prophetstown, IL, living there for many years before moving to Belvidere, IL in 1973. Mary was a music teacher in many capacities during much of her life. She taught elementary school music in and near Prophetstown as well as teaching private piano lessons in both Prophetstown and Belvidere. Mary played piano and organ for church services and weddings for many years. Other jobs held included work for Public Service Company and Gardner Funeral Home, both in Prophetstown. She also sold real estate for Audrey Smith Real Estate in Belvidere. As a volunteer, she served on the worship and music committee at her church, Zion Lutheran in Belvidere. Mary and Lee delivered Meals on Wheels to residents in and near Belvidere as well. Mary is survived by her husband, Lee Bierman; daughter, Lisa Bierman, of Oak Park, IL; son-in-law, Todd Kuiken; 2 grandsons, Adam and Alex Kuiken. She is preceded in death by parents, and all of her siblings, Marjorie Gardner, "Bud" Gibson, Dorine Johnson, Allen Gibson and Carol "Kelly" Gibson.

Funeral services 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 22, 2014 in Zion Lutheran Church 1300 Pearl St. Belvidere. The Rev. Nord Swanstrom, pastor, officiating. Visitation 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Saturday in the church. Burial in Belvidere Cemetery. Memorials to Zion Lutheran Church. Funeral arrangements by Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services, Buck-Wheeler-Hyland Chapel, 218 W. Hurlbut Avenue. To express condolences online, please visit www.andersonfcs.com